A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck Kyushu, Japan, on July 29, 2026, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The quake triggered a blast at a shopping mall in the city of Kumamoto, leading to a fire and partial collapse of the structure. Emergency services evacuated the area and are working to contain the blaze.
Widespread blackouts were reported across the region, affecting thousands of households. Kyushu Electric Power Company confirmed power outages in multiple prefectures, including Kumamoto and Miyazaki. Authorities have urged residents to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary travel.
Evacuation orders were issued for coastal areas due to a tsunami advisory, though no major waves were reported. The government has set up shelters for displaced residents, and the Self-Defense Forces have been deployed for rescue and relief operations.
No immediate reports of casualties have been confirmed, but rescue teams are searching through debris. The earthquake is the strongest to hit Kyushu since the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, which caused significant damage and loss of life.
