Powerful earthquake in Japan: more than 50 injured and widespread destruction

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan's southern Kumamoto Prefecture, causing widespread destruction and disruptions to transportation and energy infrastructure.

As a result of the natural disaster, thousands of homes were left without electricity, roads and buildings were damaged, and the number of injured, according to preliminary data, exceeded 50 people.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, speaking to journalists in Tokyo, said that authorities continue to assess the scale of the earthquake's consequences. According to her, information on the number of injured and the extent of the damage continues to be clarified as data comes in from the affected areas.

According to public broadcaster NHK, more than fifty injured were registered at just one hospital. In addition, as Nikkei newspaper reports, several passengers on a high-speed train were injured during the tremors.

The disaster caused significant damage to infrastructure facilities. According to Japanese media, several buildings were damaged, including one of the Aeon chain's shopping centers, where an explosion reportedly occurred. Footage distributed by NHK also shows buildings engulfed in flames, as well as structures partially destroyed by the earthquake. Aeon company representatives had not provided official comments on the incident at the time of publication.

Serious damage was also recorded to transportation infrastructure. Deep cracks formed on several major roads, including overpasses. In addition, a freight train derailed, rail service was temporarily suspended, and some flights were canceled.

Source: Reuters