People trapped in Japanese mall after earthquake, with others reported missing at paper factory
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kyushu, Japan, with Kumamoto suffering severe damage as the Aeon Mall Kumamoto partly collapsed and many people were trapped inside. Reports also indicated missing staff at the mall. The disaster prompted a large-scale rescue effort by the Self-Defence Forces, while aftershocks, power outages, and damaged infrastructure hampered relief and evacuation. Officials warned of further tremors and ongoing assessments as night fell. The outlook emphasizes continued sheltering, monitoring, and rescue operations through the night.
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The quake measured 7.1 and occurred at 16:27 local time, causing widespread damage including collapsed structures and power outages across Kumamoto Prefecture.
Video and police reports indicated that the second floor of a major shopping centre collapsed, trapping shoppers and staff and prompting an urgent rescue response.
NHK and local authorities cited that 20 to 30 employees at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto were uncontactable, raising concerns about additional people possibly trapped inside.
A separate incident in the prefecture involved a paper factory chimney collapse, with multiple people reported missing and investigators at Nippon Paper Industries in Yatsushiro coordinating searches.
Japan’s meteorological agency logged a series of aftershocks (61 recorded) and warned of continued seismic activity, while authorities managed road closures and disrupted transportation.
Prime Minister and local officials stressed a ‘human life first’ approach, coordinating with Self-Defence Forces to lead rescue efforts and monitor affected areas through the night.
Initial reports noted that a brief tsunami warning had been issued and then lifted, and authorities urged residents to stay informed via radio and television for updates.