Tokyo: Rescue teams in Japan are continuing an intense search for survivors after a powerful earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu, leaving widespread destruction and claiming at least 23 lives. Authorities have warned that the number of deaths could rise as emergency workers continue to search through collapsed buildings and damaged industrial sites. Thousands of rescue personnel, including firefighters, police officers and members of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force, remain on the ground as recovery efforts enter a critical stage.
The magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck on July 28 with its epicentre near Kumamoto City. Strong shaking was felt across much of Kyushu, causing buildings to collapse, roads to crack and landslides in several areas. The earthquake also disrupted electricity, water supply and transport services, forcing thousands of residents to leave their homes and seek shelter in evacuation centres. Officials have reported numerous aftershocks since the main quake, raising concerns about further damage and making rescue operations more difficult.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred at an Aeon shopping mall in Kashima. Thousands of shoppers and staff members were evacuated safely soon after the earthquake. However, about 80 minutes later, a powerful explosion tore through part of the building, causing sections of the second floor to collapse. Several employees who had remained inside to inspect the building became trapped under the debris. Investigators believe the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak triggered by the earthquake, although the exact cause is still under investigation.
The shopping mall had recently reopened after extensive rebuilding work following the devastating Kumamoto earthquakes of 2016. For many local residents, the building had become a symbol of the region's recovery, making its destruction especially heartbreaking. Rescue teams have continued working around the clock at the site, using heavy machinery and search dogs to locate anyone who may still be trapped.
The earthquake also caused serious damage to factories and industrial facilities across the region. A large chimney collapsed at a paper manufacturing plant, killing workers and causing significant damage to the site. Several major companies, including automobile and electronics manufacturers, temporarily suspended production to inspect their facilities for structural damage. Industry experts say the disruption could have a short term impact on supply chains for vehicles, electronic components and semiconductors produced in Kyushu.
Thousands of residents remain displaced as emergency shelters continue to fill with families who are afraid to return home because of repeated aftershocks. Many people have chosen to sleep inside their vehicles or temporary shelters as engineers inspect damaged buildings. Authorities estimate that more than 10,000 people are staying in evacuation centres, while around 23,000 households remain without electricity. Water supplies have also been interrupted in many communities, making daily life difficult for affected residents.
High summer temperatures have created additional challenges for both survivors and rescue workers. Daytime temperatures have climbed above 30 degrees Celsius, increasing the risk of dehydration and heat related illnesses. Emergency crews have been distributing drinking water, food, blankets and medical supplies to evacuation centres, while health workers monitor elderly residents and young children who are considered most vulnerable.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has described the rescue effort as a race against time and ordered the full mobilisation of national emergency resources. The government has assured the public that there have been no reports of problems at nearby nuclear facilities. Engineers are also carrying out inspections of bridges, roads, railway lines and public buildings to ensure they are safe before normal services fully resume.
Japan is one of the world's most earthquake prone countries because it lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates meet. Strict building standards introduced after previous disasters have helped reduce the risk of widespread structural collapse, but experts say major earthquakes can still trigger dangerous secondary disasters such as fires, gas explosions and landslides.
As rescue operations continue, communities across Kumamoto are mourning those who lost their lives while hoping that more survivors can still be found. The disaster has once again highlighted Japan's preparedness for natural disasters, while also showing the enormous challenges that follow when powerful earthquakes strike densely populated areas.