Rescuers in Japan Search for Survivors as Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 13

Rescue operations are underway in southern Japan following a devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck the region on Tuesday, resulting in at least 13 fatalities, widespread power outages, and significant infrastructure damage. The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 20 kilometers south of Kumamoto City, the largest city in central Kyushu, which has a population of around 700,000.

Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate survivors in the aftermath of the quake. Eight individuals were extracted from the debris of a partially collapsed shopping mall in Kumamoto, which suffered extensive damage from an apparent explosion about an hour after the earthquake. Tragically, three of those rescued have since died. The mall’s operator, Aeon, reported that four workers remain unaccounted for among the approximately 2,700 staff members.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that efforts are being mobilized to rescue as many individuals as possible. “Even now, there are people waiting to be rescued, and this is a race against time,” Takaichi remarked during a press conference in Tokyo.

Authorities are investigating the possibility of a gas explosion at the Aeon mall, with reports of gas odors detected inside the building. Minoru Kihara, Japan’s top government spokesperson, confirmed that the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

Impact on Local Infrastructure

Emergency services, including fire rescue teams and police, have deployed around 170 army personnel to focus on areas where distress calls have been received. Over 4,500 soldiers have been dispatched to assist with recovery efforts across the affected region.

In addition to the mall incident, seven individuals are reported missing after a chimney collapsed at a Nippon Paper Industries factory, with four others suffering serious injuries. Hospitals in the area are treating dozens of patients, and local authorities have instructed approximately 260,000 residents to evacuate to designated centers.

The earthquake has also caused significant damage to infrastructure. In Yatsushiro, one of the hardest-hit areas, many homes have sustained roof damage, and several buildings have collapsed. Roads leading to this coastal town are cracked and buckled, with many businesses forced to close. A bridge has partially collapsed into the Kumagawa River, attracting onlookers to the site.

Health and Safety Concerns

Authorities have warned residents in the most affected areas to remain vigilant for aftershocks and potential landslides over the coming week. With over 36,000 homes still without power and temperatures soaring to around 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), officials have also raised concerns regarding the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Some hospitals in the region are struggling to cope with the influx of patients. One facility in Uki city reported that a power outage has rendered it unable to function effectively. The head of the administrative department described the situation as akin to a field hospital. Another hospital in the area has suspended admissions after treating 86 injured individuals, including three with serious injuries.

Transportation Disruptions

The earthquake has disrupted transportation services, with several passengers on high-speed trains reporting injuries. Train operators suspended all services immediately following the quake.

The collapse of the Aeon mall, the largest shopping center in Kumamoto, has drawn significant public attention. Footage shows one side of the mall torn away, exposing steel beams and debris scattered across the parking lot.

Major corporations with facilities in the vicinity, including Renesas Electronics, Sony, Tokyo Electron, and Honda, have temporarily halted operations at their plants. Toyota Motor has also announced the suspension of work at three factories outside Kumamoto prefecture through Friday, considering the situation with suppliers. TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, evacuated workers from its local plant as a precaution but has since begun resuming operations.

Historical Context

Japan is located on the “Ring of Fire,” an area known for its seismic activity, accounting for approximately 20% of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or greater. A significant earthquake in Kumamoto a decade ago resulted in 275 deaths and over 2,700 injuries, damaging numerous buildings, including the city’s historic castle.

The recent quake has similarly affected several historic sites, including shrines with heavy tiled roofs that partially collapsed and a 17th-century tea house.

As reported by www.arnnewscentre.ae.

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Published on 2026-07-28 12:51:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk