A 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's southern Kyushu island late Tuesday afternoon, injuring at least 50 people and knocking out power to thousands of homes.
The quake hit approximately 20 kilometers south of Kumamoto, triggering over 60 aftershocks and causing severe structural damage.
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An explosion occurred inside an Aeon shopping mall following the quake, leaving multiple individuals trapped. Authorities indicated several people inside were presumed dead, though official figures remain unconfirmed.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed the nation, urging residents to prioritize safety. "We have already been informed that people have been injured.
Power outages and fires have occurred in some areas," she said.
Disaster management officials issued evacuation instructions to nearly 300,000 residents. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of continued seismic activity and landslide risks for about a week.
Local resident Kazuya Tsurunaga described the explosion's aftermath: "It was a huge impact.
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A large cloud of smoke billowed up, and the area around us was in a state like volcanic ash was falling."
Aeon confirmed that store personnel evacuated customers immediately after the primary shockwave. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
Transport and utility networks across Kyushu suffered extensive disruptions.
Kyushu Electric Power recorded 48,000 household blackouts, while JR Kyushu suspended bullet train lines and Kumamoto Airport closed its primary runway.
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Major tech firms including TSMC, Sony, and Fujifilm evacuated staff from local plants. Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed no irregularities at nearby nuclear facilities.
