Earthquake Hits Southern Japan, Causing Significant Damage

A powerful earthquake struck southern Japan, resulting in infrastructure damage, collapsed buildings, and widespread power outages affecting tens of thousands of people.

The quake hit around 4:27 p.m. local time on Tuesday in Kumamoto Prefecture, located on Kyushu Island. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that it reached a maximum seismic intensity of 7, which is the highest on Japan’s Shindo scale.

In her announcement, she mentioned reports of injuries, fires, and additional power outages. There have also been instances of collapsing structures, as well as damage to roads and bridges.

The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded the earthquake’s magnitude at 7.1, while the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported it at 6.8.

The USGS indicated a significant likelihood of fatalities and estimated potential economic losses to be in the billions.

Media reports, citing fire services, noted that the second floor of a shopping mall in Kashima collapsed, trapping individuals inside. According to CBS News, there were reports of an explosion-like sound at the Aeon Mall.

Additionally, approximately 45,000 homes and buildings experienced power outages, as specified by Kyushu Electric Power.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority reported no damage or safety problems at the Sendai Nuclear Power Plant, which lies about 100 kilometers (over 60 miles) from the earthquake’s epicenter.

In a recent tweet, the IAEA elaborated that the Sendai plant remains operational and unaffected by the quake.

It’s worth noting that in 2011, a devastating earthquake of at least 9.0 magnitude and the resulting tsunami caused immense destruction, leading to over 18,000 fatalities and issues at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

This story is still developing, so updates will be provided as more information becomes available.