The death toll from a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan, has risen to 23. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
The earthquake triggered an explosion at a shopping mall, toppled a factory chimney, and flattened many homes. The Kumamoto prefectural government confirmed the death toll. Rescuers are still searching for people trapped under debris, but hope of finding survivors is fading.
The earthquake occurred on July 30, 2026. An explosion occurred at the AEON Mall shopping center, and firefighters are assisting victims. Houses were destroyed in Kashima, Uki, and Hikawa, with residents receiving food supplies. Local services and volunteers are involved in rescue operations.