At least 13 people have died after a powerful earthquake struck Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture, with rescue teams continuing to search damaged buildings as authorities work to restore essential services across the region.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae confirmed on Wednesday that the death toll from the magnitude 7.1 earthquake had reached 13. The quake struck southern Japan on Tuesday, causing widespread structural damage, disrupting transportation and leaving thousands of households without electricity.
Emergency officials said one of the most serious incidents occurred in the Kashima area of Kumamoto Prefecture, where an explosion was reported at a shopping center. Authorities evacuated about 200 people from the building before the second floor collapsed, a move believed to have prevented a higher number of casualties.
Rescue crews remained at the site on Wednesday, searching through debris for anyone who might still be trapped. Firefighters, police officers and emergency medical teams have been deployed across the affected areas as aftershocks continue to pose additional risks.
The powerful earthquake also disrupted transportation across the region. Shinkansen bullet train services were suspended as engineers carried out inspections of tracks, stations and other rail infrastructure to ensure passenger safety before operations could resume.
Power outages affected thousands of homes in Kumamoto Prefecture, with utility crews working to restore electricity as quickly as possible. Local authorities urged residents to remain cautious, warning that damaged buildings and continued seismic activity could create further hazards.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued tsunami warnings for the Ariake Sea and the Yatsushiro Sea shortly after the earthquake struck. Residents in coastal communities were advised to move to higher ground while officials monitored sea conditions. Authorities later continued to assess the risk as emergency operations expanded across the region.
Hospitals and emergency shelters were placed on high alert to assist displaced residents and those injured in the disaster. Local governments also opened evacuation centers for people whose homes were damaged or considered unsafe.
Japan is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries because it lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where several major tectonic plates meet. Strict building regulations and regular disaster preparedness exercises have helped reduce casualties in many earthquakes, although powerful tremors continue to pose significant risks to communities.
Government agencies said damage assessments were continuing, with teams inspecting roads, bridges and public facilities throughout Kumamoto Prefecture. Officials pledged to provide support for affected residents while rescue and recovery efforts remain the top priority.
Authorities have urged the public to follow official safety guidance and remain alert for possible aftershocks as emergency crews continue operations in the hardest-hit areas.
