A powerful earthquake struck Japan on July 28, 2026, causing significant damage including the collapse of a shopping mall where many people are feared trapped, according to local authorities. The quake, which registered a magnitude of 6.9, also sparked fires and injured more than 100 individuals, as reported by private broadcaster TBS.
Emergency services are currently conducting rescue operations at the mall site, with reports of a 'considerable' number of people unaccounted for. The earthquake's epicenter was located near the coast, triggering a tsunami warning that has since been lifted. Buildings in several cities have been damaged, and power outages are affecting thousands of homes.
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has convened an emergency response team and urged residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks. Hospitals are treating the injured, with some in critical condition. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as rescue efforts continue through the night.
