Death toll in Japan earthquake rises to 17 as aftershock and heat complicate rescue efforts
Summary
A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Japan’s Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu island, killing 17 people and injuring at least 62. Rescue efforts face challenges from high heat, a large aftershock, and damage to buildings including a collapsed shopping mall.Key Facts
- The earthquake hit Kumamoto prefecture in south-west Japan with a magnitude of 6.8.
- At least 17 people have died and 62 were injured.
- Around 5,000 Self-Defense Forces personnel are conducting rescue operations.
- A magnitude 5.8 aftershock occurred overnight, hindering rescue work.
- About 170 rescue workers are searching inside the damaged Aeon mall in Kashima town.
- Nearly 35,000 homes have lost electricity, and 15,000 homes lack running water.
- More than 8,800 people are staying in over 400 shelters with added air conditioning due to hot weather reaching 35°C.
- Some residential areas have homes flattened and collapsed into a river.
- The earthquake caused damage to buildings, roads, and factories, leading some car and chip manufacturers to halt production temporarily.
- Japan is located in a very seismically active zone known as the "ring of fire," with frequent earthquakes.
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