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Death toll rises to 18 after Japan earthquake
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan, killing at least 18 people, including a Vietnamese foreigner, and injuring 62 others, with fears the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.
- The Aeon Mall in Kashima city suffered severe damage, including a second-floor collapse and a gas explosion, resulting in four confirmed deaths and three missing persons at the site.
- Rescue operations are ongoing amid sweltering heat, with Japan’s Self Defense Forces and international firefighters, including those from Taiwan, searching for survivors trapped in collapsed buildings and factories.
- Infrastructure disruptions include nearly 34,900 homes without electricity, 15,000 without water, suspended bullet train services, and some flight cancellations at Aso Kumamoto Airport.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of rescue efforts, pledged government support for affected areas, and extended condolences to victims and their families.
