Powerful 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Kumamoto, Japan; Explosion in Shopping Mall Kills at Least Three

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in southern Japan on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and injuring dozens more. Following the earthquake, an explosion occurred at an Aeon shopping mall, and various physical structures were damaged, causing disruptions to road, rail, and air traffic. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered around 300,000 residents to move to safe locations for their protection, as damage assessments continue.

13 Shrawan, Kathmandu – In Kumamoto Prefecture, southern Japan, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake on Tuesday triggered an explosion at a shopping mall and structural collapses, leading to at least three fatalities and numerous injuries. According to information provided by the Kumamoto Prefectural Government Wednesday morning, eight people were rescued alive during overnight search and rescue operations at the Aeon mall. Among the casualties, two women in their twenties were confirmed dead, while one individual was found in cardiopulmonary arrest. Five others were injured, though their conditions were not reported as critical.

Firefighting agencies, police, and Self-Defense Forces of Japan have continued rescue efforts through the night. Officials indicated that rescue teams focused on locations where calls for help were received inside buildings. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi noted that comprehensive damage assessments are underway, revealing power outages in some areas as well as fires, and widespread damage to roads, bridges, and buildings.

Approximately 300,000 people were instructed to evacuate to secure sites and temporary shelters following the earthquake. Due to continued aftershocks in the Kyushu region, authorities have urged residents to remain highly vigilant. The Aeon shopping mall, which houses nearly 200 stores, was severely damaged after the explosion. The exterior of the building collapsed, exposing steel structures, and debris scattered extensively across the parking area. The mall’s operating company confirmed that all customers and staff were safely evacuated shortly after the quake. While the explosion’s cause remains unconfirmed, investigations are focusing on a potential gas leak.

An eyewitness near the incident site reported a large explosion occurred while cleaning dishes after the earthquake, with thick smoke creating an atmosphere comparable to volcanic ash fallout. Meanwhile, the chimney at the Nippon Paper Industries factory collapsed, leaving several workers unaccounted for. Over 50 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at two hospitals, some in serious condition. Passengers on high-speed trains in operation during the quake were also among the injured.

Several buildings partially collapsed and fires broke out in multiple locations following the earthquake. Local media reported one fatality due to a building collapse in a city close to the epicenter. Major cracks in highways have affected road traffic. Rail services have been suspended, and Kumamoto Airport’s runway closure has led to multiple flight cancellations and diversions.

Global tech giants such as TSMC, Sony, and Fujifilm have evacuated employees from their factories in the region safely. TSMC reported no major damage to its production facilities and has gradually resumed operations. Tokyo Electron has suspended operations at its two Kumamoto plants through Wednesday, while Honda has temporarily halted production at its motorcycle factory.

The Japan Meteorological Agency located the earthquake’s epicenter approximately 20 kilometers south of Kumamoto city. Due to the heightened risk of aftershocks and landslides expected over the coming week, authorities have advised residents to remain cautious. Kyushu Electric Power reported power outages affecting roughly 48,000 households. However, the Japanese Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no abnormalities at any nuclear power plants.

Kumamoto had previously experienced a devastating earthquake a decade ago that killed 275 people and damaged thousands of buildings. Authorities anticipate potentially significant damage from this recent event as well.