Japan earthquake: At least five dead after tremor and explosion in Kumamoto

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake rocked southwestern Japan, claiming at least five lives and leaving a trail of destruction. Two young women were among the victims discovered in the debris of the Aeon Mall in Kashima, Kumamoto Prefecture, where a significant explosion caused a floor to collapse.

Authorities suspect a gas leak triggered the blast at the shopping center. Footage captured by a motorist showed the moment of the explosion, which brought down ceilings and walls, exposing the building's steel frame. The mall's operator confirmed that employees and customers had already been evacuated due to the initial earthquake tremors before the explosion occurred.

Rescuers are continuing their search for missing individuals, with fears that the death toll may rise as people are believed to be trapped within the partially collapsed shopping center. The earthquake, which struck the island of Kyushu on Tuesday afternoon, also damaged other buildings and roads in the region, with several people reported injured.

This region is no stranger to seismic activity. Kumamoto Prefecture was hit by devastating earthquakes a decade ago, which resulted in nearly 300 fatalities and forced tens of thousands to seek shelter in temporary accommodations. Following the recent quake, a tsunami warning was issued but quickly lifted. Several aftershocks, including one measuring magnitude 6.1, have continued to rattle the area.