7.1 magnitude quake devastates Kumamoto, casualties reported

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck the southwestern part of Japan’s Kyushu island at approximately 4:27 p.m. local time, with its epicenter about ten kilometres deep beneath Kumamoto prefecture.

Initial reports confirm one fatality and multiple injuries. The tremor caused the collapse of part of the Ayon Mall’s second floor, generating a loud explosion-like sound and white smoke that prompted dozens of emergency calls.

Rescue crews from the local fire department have been dispatched to assess structural damage and search for survivors trapped under debris. Around 50 people have already been transported to hospitals, although precise injury counts remain pending.

The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a one‑metre tsunami warning for the Ariake and Yatsushiro seas, while nuclear facilities in Kagoshima and Saga reported no irregularities.