Sanae Takaichi coordinates emergency response as 7.1-magnitude earthquake strikes southern Japan
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered a swift assessment of the damage following a 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck the Kumamoto prefecture in southern Japan on Tuesday. The tremor caused significant structural damage, including the partial collapse of a shopping mall and a buckled highway bridge. At least 50 people were injured, and several others remain trapped or unaccounted for in the collapsed mall and a nearby paper factory. Authorities believe a gas leak may have triggered an explosion that contributed to the building collapses. While the historic Kumamoto Castle suffered visible damage to its stone walls, the Sendai nuclear power station reported no irregularities. The administration pledged to provide essential supplies like food and water to affected communities. Residents in the region are being urged to remain vigilant for aftershocks, as the area was previously devastated by a major earthquake a decade ago.