Massive explosion at Kumamoto shopping mall after major earthquake

A significant explosion rocked the AEON shopping mall in Kumamoto, Japan, hours after a powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the region. The blast caused severe damage and partial collapse of the building, with large plumes of smoke and a gas-like odor reported at the scene.

The incident occurred around 5:45 PM to 6:00 PM local time on July 28, 2026, more than an hour after the initial earthquake. Emergency services received multiple reports of the explosion at the large shopping center in Kashima Town, Kumamoto Prefecture. Witnesses, including staff at the Kashima Town Hall located 1.5 kilometers away, reported hearing a loud bang.

Video footage circulating online showed thick white smoke billowing from the mall, with dust and debris blanketing the surrounding area. The building sustained heavy damage and appeared to have partially collapsed. Fortunately, customers and employees had already evacuated the premises to outdoor areas following the earthquake approximately one hour prior.

However, authorities are concerned that individuals may still be trapped within the collapsed structure. Firefighters and rescue teams are currently on site, working to confirm the extent of the situation, ascertain the number of casualties, and determine if there were any fatalities. The cause of the explosion is under investigation, with initial reports suggesting it originated on the second floor of the commercial facility.