TOKYO ― The Japanese government confirmed at least 13 people were killed after a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in the country's southwest.
Devastation at a shopping mall in Kashima following a 7.1 magnitude earthquake 🖼️ Photo: Kyodo News
📋 AI Summary
- A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southwestern Japan.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the current death toll has reached at least 13 people.
- The second floor of a shopping mall in Kashima collapsed following an explosion after the tremor.
- Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train services and dozens of domestic flights were suspended.
📝 Table of Contents
■ Death toll in Kumamoto quake rises
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the official death toll after receiving updated reports from local authorities.
The high-power tremor caused severe damage to various public infrastructure and residential homes across the prefecture.
Local rescue teams are actively continuing search and rescue operations for victims believed to be still trapped.
■ Shopping mall collapse in Kashima
The strong quake on Tuesday afternoon also triggered a series of explosions at a major shopping mall in Kashima district.
The tragic incident at the premises claimed the lives of two women, while another victim was found unconscious.
A total of 200 visitors managed to evacuate to safety shortly before the building's second floor collapsed completely.
■ Rescue missions and emergency aid
The Tokyo Metropolitan Police dispatched helicopters and eight special disaster rescue personnel to the destruction zone.
The elite team is equipped with specialized expertise to expedite the process of locating missing victims under the rubble.
■ Power outages and transport disruptions
The disaster's impact also saw Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train services immediately suspended by its operator.
Airlines Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways also canceled at least 13 domestic flights for safety reasons.
Video: Massive earthquake jolts Japan's Kumamoto prefecture, damaging buildings 🎥 Video: YouTube
Meanwhile, Kumamoto city's tram service resumed operations at reduced speeds due to the threat of aftershocks.
Thousands of households around affected areas are reportedly still facing power outages.
■ Maximum intensity of Japan tremors
Several local businesses and factories decided to temporarily halt business operations.
The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded a maximum seismic intensity scale reading of level 7 when the first quake struck at 4:27 pm.
Authorities continue to urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant against potential aftershocks.
💡 FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What was the magnitude of the earthquake that struck Kumamoto, Japan?
The powerful earthquake that hit Kumamoto Prefecture measured 7.1 on the Richter scale.
How many fatalities have been confirmed by the Japanese government?
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that at least 13 people were killed in the disaster.
What happened at the shopping mall in Kashima district?
An explosion occurred before the second floor of the shopping mall building collapsed completely.
Were public transportation services affected by the earthquake?
Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train services were suspended and at least 13 domestic flights were canceled.
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