The death toll from the powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck southwestern Japan has risen to 34, authorities in Kumamoto prefecture said on Friday, July 31, 2026. Six other people remain seriously injured as rescue and recovery operations continue across the quake-hit region.

The earthquake struck on Tuesday near the city of Uki in Kumamoto prefecture, on the southern island of Kyushu. The powerful tremor disrupted essential services, leaving about 40,000 homes without electricity and forcing the suspension of rail services across parts of the region.

Tsunami warnings were also issued initially for areas of southern Japan following the earthquake but were later lifted.

Nearly half of the reported deaths were connected to two major incidents. One involved structural damage at a Nippon Paper Industries paper mill, while another was linked to a possible gas explosion at an Aeon store in the affected area.

Rescue teams have continued searching damaged buildings and infrastructure for survivors while authorities assess the full extent of the destruction. The earthquake also caused significant disruption to transportation and local services.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant for the possibility of further strong aftershocks. Authorities are maintaining emergency preparedness as rescue and relief efforts continue.

The disaster has also created additional challenges for residents because of water shortages amid an ongoing period of intense summer heat. Emergency agencies are working to provide essential supplies and assistance to affected communities.

Japan is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries because of its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” The latest disaster has renewed memories of the devastating Kumamoto earthquakes a decade ago, which officially claimed 275 lives.

Authorities are expected to continue damage assessments and relief operations as communities begin the difficult process of recovery.