The death toll from a powerful earthquake in southwestern Japan has risen to 34, up from 25, authorities said.
The Kumamoto prefecture government confirmed the figure on Friday, adding that six more people were seriously injured.
- list 1 of 3Japan Kumamoto earthquake: What happened and what we know so far
- list 2 of 3Japan earthquake leaves widespread destruction
- list 3 of 3‘Like volcanic ash falling’: Inside Aeon mall after Japan’s earthquake
end of list
The magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck on Tuesday near the city of Uki, knocking out power to about 40,000 homes, halting rail services, and triggering tsunami warnings in areas of Japan’s southern island of Kyushu.
Nearly half of the deaths were linked to two incidents: structural damage at a Nippon Paper Industries paper mill, and a possible gas explosion at an Aeon store.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged residents to remain vigilant for further strong aftershocks. Communities in the region are also facing water shortages amid ongoing summer heat, complicating relief efforts.
Japan is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. A previous major quake in Kumamoto a decade ago killed 275 people.
Related News
US, Iran trade strikes: What to know, will it unravel the MoU?
Concern for renewed war in Iran as US attacks military, civilian targets
Tanker on fire off coast of Oman after being hit by projectile
