Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi coordinates rescue efforts in Kumamoto after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake kills at least 25 people.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that the central government will lead the coordination of rescue efforts following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake in southwestern Japan. The disaster struck on Tuesday, causing an explosion at a mall, a factory chimney collapse, and flattened homes, resulting in at least 25 confirmed deaths and 86 injuries. Rescuers are currently working to locate survivors in the Kumamoto area, where thousands of people remain in evacuation centers. Many residents face challenges with limited water and electricity, while officials express concern over potential heatstroke during the sweltering heat. In the town of Hikawa, residents are staying in vehicles or tents as they wait for water and food supplies. The most significant damage occurred at the Aeon Mall shopping center in Kashima, where an explosion trapped several people. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that restoring essential utilities and providing fresh water are top priorities for the administration to ensure stability for the residents.