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NewsKPBS Public MediaJuly 29, 2026San Diego

Death toll rises to 18 following major earthquake in southwestern Japan

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Japan's Kumamoto region has resulted in at least 18 deaths and 62 injuries. Rescue operations are ongoing as thousands remain without power and water, and emergency shelters have been established for over 8,800 displaced residents.

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Why It Matters

The earthquake has caused significant infrastructure damage, including the suspension of bullet train services and the loss of essential utilities for tens of thousands of residents, requiring a large-scale federal and international rescue response.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake magnitude was 7.1.
  • At least 18 people have been confirmed dead.
  • At least 62 people are injured, with six in serious condition.
  • Nearly 34,900 homes are without electricity.
  • Approximately 15,000 homes are without running water.
  • Over 8,800 people have relocated to more than 400 emergency shelters.
  • Four deaths occurred at the Aeon Mall in Kashima city following a floor collapse and gas explosion.
  • Five people died at a Nippon Paper Industries factory in Yatsushino due to a chimney collapse.
  • One foreign national, a Vietnamese technical intern, was killed by a falling crane.
  • Bullet train services are currently suspended.
  • Aso Kumamoto Airport has resumed limited operations, though some flights remain canceled.
  • Rescue efforts include the Japanese Self Defense Forces and firefighters from Taiwan.

Who's Mentioned

organizationAeon Mall“A shopping center in Kashima city where a floor collapsed and a gas explosion oc”locationKumamoto“The region in Japan where the earthquake occurred.”personKiyoshi Matsunaga“A 74-year-old resident who witnessed the earthquake.”personAkio Yoshida“President of Aeon, who confirmed four deaths at the mall site.”personSanae Takaichi“Prime Minister of Japan coordinating the rescue efforts.”organizationNippon Paper Industries“A factory site in Yatsushino where a chimney collapse resulted in five deaths.”