This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
A powerful earthquake struck Japan at 4:27 PM local time. A 7.1-magnitude earthquake was recorded in Kumamoto Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan, prompting an immediate tsunami warning that was lifted shortly after. Travelers are still being warned that strong aftershocks could persist for at least a week, with the next two or three days carrying the most risk, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Follow TheTravel’s live updates below.
JR Train Services Suspended In Kyushu
Tuesday, July 28, at 11:05 AM EST
Tuesday’s earthquake almost immediately halted much of Kyushu’s rail network after automatic safety systems and precautionary closures were initiated across the island.
JR Kyushu’s suspended services include the Kyushu Shinkansen (a bullet-train line from Hakata Station, Fukuoka, to Kumamoto and on to Kagoshima-Chuo). The Kyushu Shinkansen is normally the island’s fastest and most reliable service; it operates between north and south, carrying tourists, everyday commuters, and business travelers between Kyushu’s largest cities.
ASO Kumamoto Airport Cancels Flights After Earthquake
Tuesday, July 28, at 10:41 AM EST
ASO Kumamoto Airport has canceled all flights following the 7.1 magnitude earthquake in the Kumamoto region. In a statement posted on its website at 21:45 P.M. JST (7:45 A.M. EST), the airport confirmed its decision.
“Due to the earthquake that occurred in the Kumamoto region around 4:27 p.m. on July 28, at Aso Kumamoto Airport, all scheduled domestic and international flights have been cancelled,” the statement reads.
The statement continues, assuring travelers that the airport’s disruption is not expected to last long. “We plan to resume normal operations tomorrow, the 29th […] Please check the latest flight information on the airline’s website, etc. (Some flights may be cancelled).”
ASO Kumamoto Airport is served by 17 airlines, including Japan Airlines, Air Seoul, and China Airlines, and on average, handles around 38–43 departures per day and an equal number of arrivals, meaning a total of 86 flights could be affected by the cancellations.
Tuesday, July 28, at 10:19 AM EST
Following the 7.1-magnitude earthquake in Southern Japan on Tuesday, firefighters were seen attempting to extinguish massive flames rising from a burning building in Kumamoto. In another video (seen above, posted by CBS News), an overturned freight train can be seen after having derailed from the tracks. TheTravel has not yet confirmed if the fire and overturned train were caused by the quake.
More Than 46,000 Homes Without Power
Tuesday, July 28, at 9:59 AM EST
Over 46,000 households in the affected area of Kumamoto, Kyushu, are facing power blackouts following the earthquake, Kyushu Electric Power confirmed. It said it has established an emergency response unit to assist with power restoration efforts. Since then, power appears to be gradually returning as the number of impacted homes is decreasing.
7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan: People Injured And Feared Dead At Collapsed Mall
Tuesday, July 28, at 9:32 AM EST
The 7.1 magnitude earthquake occurred at a depth of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), with its epicenter about 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Kumamoto city, central Kyushu’s largest city with a population of approximately 700,000.
The quake caused the partial collapse of Eon Mall Kumamoto in Kashima town. Even as rescue operations are underway, several people are trapped, with some feared dead. Authorities are expecting casualties. NHK, a Japanese media outlet, has reported over 50 injuries already. Many people traveling on a high-speed train have also sustained injuries.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), residents, as well as travelers in the region, should be prepared for more tremors over the next week, particularly the coming two or three days when the risk of aftershocks is highest, an official at the Japan Meteorological Agency said. Some portions of the famous Kumamoto Castle’s stone walls also collapsed amid Tuesday’s earthquake, per an official at the castle’s office. The site is a popular tourist attraction.
The Japanese Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has sent 3,600 Self-Defense Force personnel for emergency rescue operations. While rescuers are attempting to enter the rubble, the destruction caused by the earthquake-triggered explosion is hindering their progress. Approximately 300,000 residents have been instructed to evacuate to a safe evacuation center.
Kumamoto Earthquake in 2017 Killed 275 People
A huge 7.3-magnitude earthquake in Kumamoto in April 2016 killed 275 people and injured 2,739. Thousands of buildings also sustained damage back then, including Kumamoto Castle, which suffered some damage to its walls again on Tuesday.
