Powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Japan's Kyushu island

On July 28, 2026, a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck the Kumamoto prefecture on Japan's Kyushu island, causing widespread destruction, building collapses, and fires. Authorities initially issued a tsunami warning, which was later lifted. The disaster has resulted in at least 17 confirmed deaths, while search and rescue operations are ongoing for survivors, including workers trapped under the rubble of the Aeon Mall in Kumamoto and a paper mill in Yatsushiro where a chimney collapse proved fatal.

Following the main tremor, over 100 aftershocks were recorded, complicating recovery efforts. An explosion, suspected to be caused by a gas leak, occurred at the Aeon Mall approximately one hour after the main quake, leading to further casualties and structural damage. While major infrastructure like the Sendai and Genkai nuclear power plants reported no safety issues, local transportation was temporarily suspended. The government continues to assess the full extent of the damage, with dozens of people injured and several others listed as missing or in critical condition as rescue teams race against time.