Powerful earthquake strikes southern Japan, triggering mall explosion and widespread damage

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan’s Kumamoto prefecture on Tuesday, July 28, causing blackouts, structural collapses, a shopping center explosion, and prompting widespread evacuation orders.

Strong earthquake hits Kumamoto prefecture

As reported by Reuters, a powerful tremor struck the Kumamoto prefecture in southern Japan on Tuesday, July 28. The 7.1-magnitude earthquake caused power outages, damaged roads, and led to the partial collapse of buildings.

The epicenter was located about 20 kilometers south of Kumamoto. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned residents in the most affected areas of potential strong aftershocks and landslides over the coming week.

Tsunami warning lifted and nuclear plants secure

Immediately following Tuesday’s tremor, a tsunami warning was issued and later lifted. Japanese nuclear regulation authorities reported no irregularities at nuclear power plants in the region.

Explosion at a Japanese shopping center

According to emergency services, an earthquake-triggered explosion occurred at an Aeon shopping mall, leaving many people trapped. Police, cited by TBS, reported that some victims are feared dead.

An Aeon spokesperson stated that customers and employees were evacuated immediately after the initial tremor, and the exact cause of the explosion is currently unknown.

Unaccounted workers and rescue operations

Japan’s public broadcaster NHK, citing police sources, reported that contact was lost with 20 to 30 mall employees. Emergency services are working to determine if any of them remain trapped inside the building.

Assessment of destruction under way

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated during a Tokyo press conference that authorities are still assessing the full scope of damage in disaster-affected areas. The politician confirmed reports of injuries, fires in certain regions, road and bridge damage, and building collapses, while urging evacuations to safe locations.

The Japanese disaster management agency reported that approximately 300,000 people have been ordered to evacuate. Takaichi announced the deployment of 3,600 troops for rescue operations amid ongoing aftershocks.

Infrastructure paralyzed and transport halted

According to NHK footage, several other regional buildings caught fire or partially collapsed, and major roads sustained extensive cracks. Railway traffic, including bullet train services, was suspended, and flights from Kumamoto Airport were canceled.

Kyushu Electric Power reported power outages affecting 48,000 households. Telecom operators KDDI and Docomo reported mobile network disruptions due to power failures and transmission line damage. Sony and Fujifilm are among the companies that prudently evacuated their regional facilities, according to the Nikkei daily.