A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Japan’s southern Kyushu island on July 28, 2026, causing widespread damage and triggering emergency rescue operations. The earthquake was followed by numerous aftershocks, while authorities warned residents to remain alert.
The quake caused building collapses, damaged roads and infrastructure, power outages, and fires. A section of a shopping mall in Kashima was badly damaged following an explosion, with people reported missing and rescue teams working to search the site.
A tsunami advisory was issued after the earthquake but was later lifted. More than 260,000 people were urged to evacuate at the height of the emergency, while Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and rescue teams were deployed to affected areas.
The disaster also disrupted transportation and industrial activity in the region. Officials continued assessing damage and searching for missing people on July 29, with residents urged to prepare for possible further tremors.
News as Reported.
