Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 28 as rescuers keep searching through extreme heat
The death toll from the magnitude 6.8 earthquake in Kumamoto prefecture has reached 30. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the rising number of fatalities as search and rescue teams continue to navigate the ruins on Kyushu island. The disaster caused significant structural damage to homes and local infrastructure, leaving tens of thousands of households without power.
Evacuation centers now host approximately 9,000 residents displaced by the tremors. Relief efforts focus on both site clearance and human safety, as the region faces temperatures climbing toward 39C. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed the deployment of 300 air conditioning units to assist those in temporary shelters.
Work remains underway at major impact sites, including the Aeon shopping centre where a portion of the building collapsed. Initial reports suggest a gas explosion occurred at the mall shortly after the quake. Rescue teams at a Nippon Paper factory in Yatsushiro city are also working to locate individuals following a structural failure at the plant.
More than 100 aftershocks have occurred since the initial event. Many residents currently sleep in their cars to avoid the risk of further building collapses. Thousands of personnel remain on the ground to manage the search and provide support in the high-heat conditions.