Japan's southwestern Kyushu region is experiencing a barrage of seismic activity, with over 100 aftershocks recorded since a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck on Tuesday. The powerful tremor has resulted in at least 13 confirmed fatalities, and an unknown number of individuals are reported to be in "cardiopulmonary arrest," a preliminary term used in Japan for critical medical situations before official confirmation of death.
Rescue operations are underway amidst intense heat as emergency crews work to free survivors trapped in the rubble of a paper factory and a shopping mall in Kumamoto prefecture. The Aeon Mall in Kashima town experienced an explosion an hour after the initial earthquake, and a section of its second floor collapsed.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the situation as a "truly a race against time" for the rescue of those still trapped. Thousands of residents have been displaced and are currently housed in evacuation centers, many of which are without power.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued warnings, urging residents to remain vigilant for further strong earthquakes. A JMA official advised that there is a possibility of earthquakes with a maximum seismic intensity of 7 occurring over the next week, particularly in the initial two to three days. Rescuers continue their search at the Aeon Mall in Kashima town, focusing on areas where the structure has significantly failed.
