Rural communities in southwestern Japan are grappling with the aftermath of a powerful earthquake that struck Tuesday, with the death toll climbing to at least 25. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but hope is dwindling for finding survivors.
The magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit the Kumamoto area on Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu, causing an explosion at a mall, toppling a factory chimney and flattening homes. The Kumamoto prefectural government confirmed 25 deaths related to the disaster, with nine additional deaths under investigation. At least 86 people were injured, five seriously.
Thousands of residents have spent multiple nights in evacuation centers, with many homes still lacking electricity and running water. The disruption comes as the region faces sweltering temperatures, with the Ministry of Environment issuing a heatstroke alert for Kumamoto, where temperatures are expected to reach up to 33 C (91 F).
In hard-hit areas like the town of Hikawa, residents are relying on delivered bottled water and instant rice. Some are sleeping in their cars due to unease about aftershocks and reluctance to stay in shelters. Others are using water sparingly, concerned about dehydration and heatstroke. Medical teams are assessing evacuees, particularly the elderly and injured, to ensure their well-being in the harsh environment.
Significant damage occurred at the Aeon Mall shopping center in Kashima, where thousands were present when the quake struck. The mall's second floor collapsed, trapping people. As of Thursday morning, six deaths were confirmed among the 11 people pulled from the wreckage. At a Nippon Paper Industries factory in Yatsushiro, a collapsed chimney resulted in eight deaths and one person still missing after 10 others were rescued.
The central government has pledged to lead rescue coordination efforts, prioritizing the restoration of essential services like electricity, gas, and water, alongside providing a supply of fresh water. Officials acknowledged the constantly changing needs on the ground and committed to addressing the uncertainty faced by residents.