Japan earthquake death toll rises to 28

The number of fatalities following a strong earthquake in southern Japan has climbed to 28, according to government spokesperson Minoru Kihara. The update comes as rescue and recovery operations continue in the affected regions.

The earthquake, measuring a magnitude of 7.1, struck at 4:27 p.m. local time on Wednesday. Its epicenter was located approximately 20 kilometers south of Kumamoto City, the largest urban center on the southern island of Kyushu. The tremors caused significant damage and prompted immediate emergency responses.

Earlier reports indicated that five individuals were found dead at a factory in Yatsushiro, Japan. Prior to this, 13 deaths had already been confirmed as a direct result of the earthquake. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatalities, including those whose deaths may be indirectly related to the seismic event.

The Japanese government is coordinating relief efforts and assessing the full impact of the disaster. The focus remains on supporting affected communities and ensuring the safety of residents in the aftermath of the powerful quake.

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The death toll is currently 28, including those whose deaths related to the earthquake are still being investigated.