The death toll from the powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture on July 28 has reached 13. This was announced by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. She stated that search and rescue operations are ongoing and that all necessary measures are being taken to rescue those trapped under the rubble.
Part of the Aeon Mall shopping center in the city of Kashima collapsed as a result of the earthquake. Preliminary reports suggest that an explosion caused by a gas leak may have occurred during the tremors. The Japan Self-Defense Forces have also been deployed to assist with rescue efforts.
Additionally, approximately 90 people have been injured, and the runway at Kumamoto Airport has been temporarily closed. The Meteorological Agency has warned that strong aftershocks could occur over the next two to three days and has urged the public to exercise caution.
