A deadly earthquake near Kumamoto in southwestern Japan on July 28 caused widespread destruction, with at least 18 people dead and rescuers racing to evacuate from a partially collapsed Aeon Mall. The Japanese Meteorological Agency put the main event at magnitude 7.1, while the U.S. Geological Survey listed 6.8, followed by aftershocks of 4.7 and 4.8. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged full resources as responders work against time to save those trapped. The disaster underscores widespread damage across the region and the urgent need for coordinated relief and recovery efforts in the days ahead.
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The initial quake struck on July 28 near Kumamoto, Japan, around 4:30 p.m. local time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, with subsequent aftershocks recorded in the same region.
Two later tremors measured 4.7 in Mifune and 4.8 in Honmachi, contributing to ongoing instability and further damage reports.
Aeon Mall, among the hardest-hit sites, was partially collapsed and rescuers were evacuating people as efforts continued on July 29.
Three workers at the mall remained unaccounted for, according to Akio Yoshida, president of Aeon, highlighting the ongoing search and rescue challenges.
Officials cited a race against time as responders mobilized all available resources to locate survivors and deliver aid, with authorities coordinating between local and national agencies.
The death toll reached at least 18 by July 29, as reported by Associated Press and CBS News, signaling a significant civilian impact.
The incident has prompted a broad relief response and intense ground operations, with the government emphasizing the need for rapid rescue and recovery in the affected region.