Over 9,000 evacuated in southwestern Japan as earthquake rescue efforts continue
More than 9,000 residents in southwestern Japan have been evacuated following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Kumamoto, with at least 13 confirmed dead and emergency operations ongoing.
Emergency crews in southwestern Japan are continuing rescue operations after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu island. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that at least 13 people have died, while government officials warn the final death toll could rise into the dozens.
More than 9,000 residents have been moved to temporary emergency shelters as authorities assess widespread structural damage. Rescue teams are attempting to reach people trapped in damaged structures, including a shopping center in Kashima where a floor collapsed following a reported explosion. Severe infrastructure damage, including fractured roads and collapsed bridges, continues to complicate search operations. Officials stated that the exact number of missing individuals remains unclear.
Sources: Der Standard, FAZ, ORF, TV 2 Nyheter.
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