People trapped inside Japan shopping centre after earthquake
Some reports say there was an explosion at the Aeon Mall in Kumamoto, following the magnitude 7.1 earthquake.
Following a powerful earthquake in southwestern Japan, numerous individuals are reportedly trapped within a shopping center.
Officials confirm that several people are stuck inside a mall after the magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck. Local media outlets have indicated a possible explosion at the Aeon Mall in Kumamoto after the seismic event.
The earthquake occurred inland on Kyushu island at 16:27 local time (07:27 GMT). Over 150,000 residents have been advised to relocate to evacuation shelters. A brief tsunami warning was issued but rescinded within an hour.
Emergency services have stated that "many people" are confined within the Aeon Mall in the Kumamoto area. Specifically, in Kashima, the fire department released a statement confirming that "a shopping complex's second floor collapsed, leaving many people trapped inside."
Japan, a nation highly susceptible to seismic activity, experiences approximately 1,500 earthquakes annually. The meteorological agency has cautioned about the potential for strong aftershocks due to the shallow epicenter, located at a depth of 10km (six miles). Footage broadcast by national network NHK displays damaged roads and bridges, along with multiple buildings ablaze.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated on Tuesday, "We are still assessing the extent of injuries and property damage, but I have been informed that there have already been several injuries." NHK reported that approximately 10 of those injured were at an elderly care facility, and at least 50 individuals are currently receiving hospital treatment.
As a result of the earthquake, train services have been halted, and thousands of homes are without electricity.