Japan Earthquake Latest: Major Quake Hits Kyushu, Rescue Efforts Underway
A major earthquake struck southern Japan today, causing significant disruption and triggering a regional tsunami warning. The quake, centered on the island of Kyushu, derailed a train, injured dozens, and left people trapped in a shopping mall in Kumamoto prefecture. According to the fire service, individuals remain inside an Aeon Mall, with ten people unaccounted for at the shopping center, as reported by an official at the Disaster Management Division of Kumamoto prefecture to the BBC.
Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, experiencing tremors almost daily. The country has significantly strengthened its earthquake warning systems and evacuation protocols since the 2011 magnitude-9.0 earthquake and tsunami that triggered meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has previously warned that “the likelihood of a new major earthquake is higher than normal, but this is not an indication that a major earthquake will definitely occur.”
In response to the latest disaster, Japanese officials are prioritizing the delivery of essential supplies. Takaichi added that the government will ensure the “delivery of essential supplies such as food and water, as well as simple air conditioners and power vehicles for heatstroke prevention.” The southern island of Kyushu, the third-largest of Japan’s four main islands and the second most populous, is now the focus of rescue and recovery efforts.
Among the notable landmarks in the region is Kumamoto Castle, built in 1607 by Kato Kiyomasa, the first daimyo (feudal lord) of the castle. The castle, a major tourist destination, has become a symbol of the area’s resilience. As Japan reels from this latest major earthquake, the world watches and offers support, while local authorities work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.
Shimanta Das 
