Japan ends mall rescue operation after earthquake; searches continue elsewhere

Authorities in southwestern Japan have ended a multi-day search and rescue operation at a devastated shopping center following a powerful earthquake earlier this week. The operation, which lasted five days, successfully recovered five survivors and the bodies of seven individuals from the debris of the Aeon Mall in Kashima.

Officials announced on Saturday that all individuals reported missing from the site have been accounted for, marking the conclusion of the specific operation at the mall. However, the overall number of missing persons in the earthquake-stricken Kumamoto Prefecture remains unknown, and search efforts are ongoing in other affected areas.

The region is facing significant challenges in the aftermath of the magnitude 7.1 earthquake. Issues include a lack of drinking water affecting nearly 70,000 households, fuel shortages, and power outages, all occurring amidst extreme heat. Over 9,000 people are still housed in crowded evacuation centers, while many others are sleeping in their damaged homes or cars.

The earthquake, which struck on Tuesday, July 28, caused extensive damage. More than 180 homes have been destroyed, and nearly 3,500 buildings have been damaged, with 20 suffering severe structural issues. The Aeon Mall was particularly hard-hit when an explosion, likely caused by a gas leak, led to the collapse of one of its floors shortly after approximately 3,000 customers were evacuated. Some employees remained inside during the incident.

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