A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's southern Kyushu island on July 28, 2026, leading to significant casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. The epicenter was located in Kumamoto Prefecture, approximately 20 kilometers south of the city of Kumamoto. The tremor occurred at 4:27 p.m. local time, with a depth of about 10 kilometers.
The earthquake resulted in at least 18 confirmed deaths, including a foreign national, and left 62 people injured, six of whom are in serious condition. Among the fatalities, four occurred at the Aeon Mall in Kashima Town, where the second floor collapsed, and five at the Nippon Paper Industries factory in Yatsushino due to a chimney collapse. Additionally, a Vietnamese intern was killed by a crane collapse, marking the first reported death of a foreign national.
The earthquake also caused significant infrastructure damage. Approximately 34,900 homes lost power, and 15,000 were without running water. Over 8,800 residents sought shelter in evacuation centers. Transportation services were severely affected, with bullet train services suspended and some flights canceled as precautions. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning for waves up to one meter, which was later lifted.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with Japan's Self-Defense Forces and international support, including Taiwanese firefighters, participating in the efforts. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of saving lives and pledged federal support. The disaster echoes a 2016 quake in the region that killed at least 50 people, underscoring Japan's frequent exposure to seismic activity.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks in the coming days. The Japanese government continues to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts to support the affected communities.