A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Japan’s southern Kumamoto Prefecture on Tuesday, leaving several people dead, dozens injured, and causing widespread damage to roads, buildings, and public infrastructure. Authorities have warned residents to remain alert as strong aftershocks continue across the region.

The earthquake, which struck at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers, triggered power outages affecting around 40,000 homes and disrupted transportation services throughout Kyushu. High-speed Shinkansen bullet trains and local rail services were suspended for safety inspections, while operations at Aso Kumamoto Airport were halted.

One of the most serious incidents occurred at an Aeon Mall in Kumamoto, where an explosion followed the earthquake. Police believe several people were killed, while rescue teams continue searching for those trapped inside the damaged building. Witnesses described hearing a massive blast followed by thick clouds of smoke rising above the shopping complex.

Hospitals across the region reported more than 50 injuries, while additional passengers were hurt after a bullet train was derailed by the powerful tremors. Approximately 300,000 residents were advised to evacuate to designated emergency shelters as authorities assessed the extent of the damage.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said emergency response operations were underway, with nearly 3,600 Self-Defense Force personnel deployed to assist rescue and recovery efforts. She urged residents to remain vigilant for the possibility of another earthquake of similar magnitude and to follow official evacuation instructions.

A tsunami warning issued immediately after the quake was later lifted. Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority confirmed that no abnormalities were detected at nearby nuclear power plants.

Japan lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” making it one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. Kumamoto experienced devastating earthquakes in 2016 that claimed hundreds of lives, highlighting the region’s continued vulnerability to major seismic events.