Key points
- A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck southwestern Japan, killing at least one person, injuring more than 100 and leaving people feared trapped in a Kashima mall.
- About 45,000 households and facilities lost power in Kumamoto, while shinkansen and local train services were suspended for safety checks.
- Japan’s Defense Ministry deployed 3,600 personnel and 20 aircraft for disaster relief and aerial damage assessments; the tsunami alert was later withdrawn.
How the story developed
A living timeline
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Latest development
At least 50 people were hospitalized, and officials said the tsunami threat had subsided as authorities continued assessing damage in Kumamoto.
Latest development
Officials said the tsunami threat had subsided, while authorities continued assessing injuries, infrastructure damage and fires after the Kumamoto earthquake.
Latest development
Officials confirmed that the tsunami threat had subsided, while emergency teams continued assessing injuries and damage after the earthquake.
Latest development
Kyushu Electric Power reported electricity losses affecting about 40,000 homes, while JR Kyushu suspended rail operations after the earthquake.
Latest verified development
Japan’s Defense Ministry said it had dispatched personnel and aircraft to assess damage and support disaster relief operations.
Latest development
Government search-and-rescue teams are assessing damage, and officials have urged residents to prepare for possible strong aftershocks.
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