A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck southern Japan, leaving at least five people dead and causing widespread damage, according to local authorities. The quake hit the region of Kyushu, triggering the collapse of buildings and roads, as reported by news sources. The Japanese Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed the fatalities, though the exact number remains under investigation.
The epicenter of the disaster was Kumamoto, where parts of a commercial center collapsed, leading to further casualties. At least two women were confirmed dead as a result of the collapse, with one more person missing after a house collapsed. Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the affected areas, with emergency services working to locate those missing.
In addition to the deaths, dozens of people are reported missing, and over 100 have been injured. The earthquake also caused gas leaks, leading to explosions that worsened the damage. Over 300,000 people were advised to evacuate to emergency centers as a precaution. The situation remains critical, with officials urging residents to stay alert and follow safety guidelines.
