A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the Kumamoto region of the southern island of Kyushu in Japan. The earthquake has triggered a nationwide emergency alert. Extensive damage assessment work has begun.
Japan’s public broadcaster NHK reported that the Eon shopping mall was severely damaged by the earthquake. Many people are feared trapped inside. Earlier, local police reported an explosion at the shopping mall in Kashima Town.
Local broadcaster TBS reported, citing police, that several people are feared dead in the accident. In addition, NHK confirmed that at least 50 people were hospitalized with injuries after the earthquake.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said that initial reports indicated several injuries. Civilian infrastructure was damaged in some places and fires broke out. In addition to roads and bridges, many buildings collapsed.
A tsunami threat was temporarily raised after the earthquake, but it later subsided. The Meteorological Department said there was no longer any threat of a tsunami or major disaster in the coastal areas. However, power outages were reported in various parts of the country.
Japan has a long history as an earthquake-prone country. Due to its location on the Pacific Ocean’s ‘Ring of Fire’, it is often hit by major earthquakes. Although the country’s tall buildings and ordinary people are always prepared to deal with such disasters, major damage is expected from this shock.
Source: Deutsche Welle
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