Key facts
- A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck a mall in Kumamoto, Japan.
- An explosion occurred an hour later, causing significant structural damage.
- Eight people were rescued, with three confirmed dead.
- The status of four store workers is unknown.
- A possible gas leak is being investigated as the cause of the explosion.
- The mall had undergone seismic reinforcement after a previous earthquake in 2016.
A massive 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck a shopping mall in Kumamoto, Japan, on Tuesday, causing workers and shoppers to be evacuated. An hour later, a significant explosion ripped through the building, exposing its steel beams and scattering debris. Rescue efforts are underway, with eight people pulled from the wreckage, including three deceased. The status of four store workers remains unknown, and the mall operator, Aeon, is investigating a possible gas leak as the cause of the blast.
First responders initially hesitated to enter the partially collapsed site due to fears of further collapse amid numerous aftershocks. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the situation as a "race against time" to rescue those trapped, and approximately 170 soldiers have been deployed to aid in the operations.
The mall, the largest in the prefecture, had recently reopened as an improved complex after being damaged in a 2016 earthquake. Its redevelopment had highlighted seismic reinforcements and safety upgrades. However, workers reported the recent temblor shook the building for 10 seconds, causing disorientation from dust. Despite the chaos, staff promptly evacuated over 200 people to a car park.
Witnesses described the explosion as sounding like a bomb, with one person seeing a large cloud of smoke. Rescue workers reported smelling gas, and emergency vehicles warned the public to stay away due to a potential leak. The mall used liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and while safety protocols exist for LPG supply shut-off during seismic activity or leaks, the exact cause of the explosion is under investigation. Aeon expressed condolences to the victims and apologized to families and the injured.