Death toll from Japan earthquake rises to 13

The death toll from the powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan's southern main island of Kyushu has risen to at least 13, according to the Japanese government. The earthquake, which hit on Tuesday, caused the most severe damage in Kumamoto Prefecture. Authorities fear the number of fatalities could increase as rescue operations continue in the rubble.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday night, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said many people remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Rescue teams are racing against time to save those still missing. She stressed that every moment is critical and pledged that the government would use all available resources to carry out the rescue efforts. (Source: CNN)

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake struck at 4:27 p.m. local time on Tuesday near Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu Island. The quake originated at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), making it a shallow earthquake that produced strong shaking across a wide area of Kyushu.

Following the earthquake, an explosion occurred at a shopping mall in Kumamoto. Preliminary reports suggest the blast was caused by a gas leak. A building also collapsed, and emergency responders are working to rescue people trapped beneath the debris.

Officials from Japan's disaster management agency said the earthquake caused cracks on numerous roads and triggered landslides in several areas. Around 48,000 households temporarily lost electricity. Train services on several railway lines were suspended as a safety precaution, while operations at Kumamoto Airport were temporarily disrupted.

A tsunami warning was issued immediately after the earthquake but was later lifted after authorities determined there was no significant tsunami threat. However, residents in coastal areas have been urged to remain vigilant and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered authorities to intensify rescue operations in the affected areas. Firefighters, police officers, and members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces have been deployed for search and rescue missions. Emergency supplies, including drinking water, food, and other essential aid, are also being delivered to affected communities.

Several major manufacturing companies have temporarily suspended production due to the earthquake, while assessments of damage at industrial facilities are underway. Authorities also confirmed that no abnormalities have been detected at nearby nuclear power plants.

Seismologists have warned that strong aftershocks could continue for several days following such a powerful earthquake. Residents in affected areas have been advised to avoid entering damaged or structurally weakened buildings and to follow official safety guidance.

Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Although earthquakes occur frequently, the country continues to minimize casualties and damage through strict building standards and advanced disaster management systems.