18 confirmed dead after earthquake in Japan: search for missing continues

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck southern Japan on Tuesday, confirming 18 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The phenomenon caused severe damage on the island of Kyushu, where building collapses, fires, power outages, road and bridge damage, and the evacuation of thousands of people were reported.{#p-1785248927440-29107}

The quake reached the maximum intensity level on the Japanese Shindo scale and prompted authorities to issue a tsunami warning, which was later lifted as no significant risk was detected.{#p-1785248942226-67276}

One of the most concerning incidents was the partial collapse of a shopping center in the town of Kashima.{#p-1785328149191-38236}

Rescue efforts are primarily focused in Kumamoto Prefecture. There are still people trapped under the rubble, and authorities have deployed firefighters, police, and military personnel due to the risk of aftershocks.{#p-1785327911796-65228}

Magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Japan {#p-1785326646670-55019}

The earthquake was recorded on Tuesday at 16:27 (local time) with its epicenter in Kumamoto Prefecture, about 10 kilometers deep, in the southwest of the island of Kyushu. This region experienced an intensity of level 7 on the Japanese Shindo seismic scale.{#p-1785327015952-29809}

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the quake generated a strong shake in nearby areas and activated emergency protocols due to the possibility of a tsunami on the western coast.{#p-1785249004462-86741}

The alert also affected Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, Saga, Oita, and Miyazaki. The agency initially warned of potential waves up to one meter high in coastal areas, although hours later it lifted the warning after confirming there was no significant threat.{#p-1785249243972-16807}

JAPAN UPDATE: A rare M7.1 earthquake hit Kumamoto. JMA warns of similar shocks.

Walls collapsed at the castle, dozens are injured in Hikawa, a bridge broke in Yatsushiro, and a blast hit Aeon Mall Kumamoto with shoppers dead & many trapped.

• Uki - Sismo - Terremoto pic.twitter.com/2kqMHNQIz0{#p-1785328573122-37921} --- GeoTechWar (@geotechwar) July 28, 2026

One of the most affected areas was the city of Yatsushiro, where numerous historical buildings and industrial facilities suffered severe structural damage. Among them was a Nippon Paper Industries plant, whose chimney collapsed during the earthquake, leaving workers trapped under the debris.{#p-1785327015952-89674}

The Yatsushiro shrine also suffered significant damage. "It was the most violent earthquake I have ever felt. The walls and windows were damaged. The main door, declared a national cultural heritage, collapsed," said Kanzo Matsumoto, 73, manager of a hot spring hotel in the area.{#p-1785327136510-33063}

The most serious incident occurred at Aeon Mall, a shopping center in the town of Kashima. According to NHK, several people were trapped after a floor of the building collapsed and an explosion was reported at the site, allegedly related to a gas leak.{#p-1785249004462-77259}

Rescue teams managed to extract several injured people alive, although others remained trapped, and search efforts continue throughout the day.{#p-1785327188720-46404}

"The explosion occurred after customers and staff were evacuated," detailed a spokesperson for Aeon, adding that "eight people were rescued at the scene, including five injured."

JAPAN UPDATE: At least 50 injured have been hospitalized in Hikawa, Kumamoto, following the severe quake.

Aerial footage shows a factory chimney collapsing in Yatsushiro, while an explosion has been reported at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto.

• Uki - Earthquake - JMA - Sismo pic.twitter.com/gHLo7eSjoH

--- GeoTechWar (@geotechwar) July 28, 2026

"In some areas, there are power outages and fires; furthermore, roads and bridges have been damaged and buildings have collapsed," detailed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

In terms of transportation, the railway company JR Kyushu suspended local train services and the Shinkansen, the Japanese bullet train, to review the safety conditions of the tracks. Aso Kumamoto Airport is gradually resuming operations, although several airlines have canceled their flights as a precaution.

The energy infrastructure was another sector hit. Kyushu Electric Power reported that 45,060 households were temporarily without electricity due to damage caused by the quake.

"When the earthquake occurred, the tremors were so strong that I couldn't stand up," stated an employee of the NHK network. He added: "It was really very strong. The tremors continue as I speak to you. Some people, myself included, felt their hearts racing."

The Japanese government conducted checks on facilities deemed critical. The Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed that no irregularities were detected in the nuclear power plants located in the affected areas.

Japan remains under surveillance for the possibility of new aftershocks. Experts from the JMA warned that seismic activity could continue in the days following the main quake and urged the public to maintain precautions against new tremors.

Victims, Injured, and Missing: How the Search Continues

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that the death toll has risen to 18, while more than 100 people have been injured to varying degrees. "We are prioritizing people's lives above all else," she expressed.

Authorities warned that the number could increase as search efforts continue in several locations where people are still missing.

The largest operation is taking place at the Aeon Mall in Kashima. Rescuers, firefighters, and specialized units are working tirelessly to locate those who remain trapped among the collapsed structures.

Teams equipped with thermal cameras, acoustic sensors, and specialized dogs are inspecting every sector of the building with the aim of finding survivors.

Another operation continues at the Nippon Paper Industries plant. Part of the structure collapsed during the quake, and several workers were trapped under tons of concrete and steel. Rescuers are advancing slowly due to the risk of new collapses caused by aftershocks.

Authorities reported that 12 houses collapsed in various areas of Kumamoto Prefecture. In some cases, heavy machinery was needed to remove concrete blocks. The public broadcaster NHK reported that at least 50 people were taken to hospitals.

The Japanese government deployed 3,600 members of the Self-Defense Forces, along with hundreds of police officers, firefighters, and medical personnel. 20 military aircraft were also sent to conduct aerial reconnaissance, transport supplies, and assess the extent of the damage in hard-to-reach areas.

The Asian country is one of the nations with the highest seismic exposure in the world due to its location in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates converge. Officials have strict evacuation and monitoring protocols, although the magnitude of the earthquake necessitated a large-scale emergency operation.

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and doesn't constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Any events, rewards, online promotions, or related information mentioned herein should not be considered a recommendation, solicitation, or invitation to purchase, sell, trade, or otherwise deal in any crypto assets. Crypto assets are highly volatile and may result in loss. The availability of WEEX services, products, and related events may vary by region. You are responsible for ensuring that your participation is in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.