A powerful earthquake struck southern Japan, causing at least two deaths and triggering a mall explosion, according to local reports. The 7.1 magnitude quake hit Kyushu on Tuesday, leading to building collapses and fires, with dozens of people injured or missing. The disaster occurred late afternoon, prompting a tsunami advisory from the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The earthquake caused part of a shopping mall to collapse, and a chimney at a nearby paper factory exploded, trapping people inside. Emergency services reported that several individuals were still missing, while others were rescued from the rubble. The incident has raised concerns about safety in commercial buildings during seismic events.
The Japanese government has begun assessing the damage, with officials emphasizing the need for improved building codes and emergency response protocols. Multiple news outlets confirmed the scale of the disaster, highlighting the potential for further casualties. The situation remains under close monitoring as authorities work to stabilize the affected areas.
(illawarramercury.com.au)
(theage.com.au)
(cebudailynews.inquirer.net)
