Death Toll Rises to 28 After Devastating Earthquake in Japan

A powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, has led to a tragic death toll of 28, with ongoing rescue efforts at affected sites. The government is mobilizing resources to restore essential services and support the victims' families. As search operations continue, the situation remains critical, with many still unaccounted for. This article delves into the latest updates on the disaster's impact and the government's response efforts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2026, 13:53 IST

Overview of the Earthquake's Impact

Representational Image

Tokyo, July 30: The recent earthquake that hit Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan has resulted in a rising death toll, now reported at 28, including individuals believed to have died due to disaster-related causes, according to local media sources on Thursday.

Rescue efforts are currently ongoing at the Nippon Paper Industries facility in Yatsushiro, where one individual remains unaccounted for.

As per the Kumamoto prefectural government's data, 17 deaths have been confirmed, which includes eight fatalities at the paper plant and five at an Aeon shopping mall in Kashima, where an explosion occurred following the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck the region on Tuesday, as reported by Kyodo News.

Additionally, six individuals are reported to be in critical condition. The number of casualties may rise further as numerous homes have collapsed in the affected areas.

During a press briefing, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara explained that there is a discrepancy between casualty figures from the central government and those from Kumamoto Prefecture, as the state relies on data from fire and police departments, while the prefecture uses statistics from local municipalities, according to Kyodo News.

Currently, over 10,000 individuals are taking refuge in evacuation centers. Approximately 23,000 households are experiencing power outages, and around 75,000 households lack access to water, as reported by the prefecture.

The earthquake, measuring 7.1 in magnitude, struck Kumamoto Prefecture at a depth of 10 kilometers at 4:27 PM local time on Tuesday, as stated by Japan's Meteorological Agency.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened the Second Extraordinary Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters Meeting to address the earthquake's aftermath. The meeting was attended virtually by Kumamoto Prefecture Governor Kimura and Deputy Minister Tsushima from the Cabinet Office.

Takaichi expressed her condolences to the victims and their families, assuring that the government is promptly assessing the damage caused by the earthquake, with relevant ministries and agencies mobilizing to respond effectively.

The Prime Minister emphasized the government's dedication to restoring essential services, such as electricity and water, in the affected regions. The Self-Defence Forces are actively engaged in providing water supplies and transporting patients.

Following the meeting, Takaichi shared on X that search and rescue operations have been bolstered, with approximately 4,600 Self-Defense Forces personnel, 2,000 police officers, and 1,400 firefighters involved in ongoing rescue efforts.

"Search and rescue operations are a race against time. At locations like 'ION Mall Kumamoto' and the 'Nippon Paper Yatsushiro Mill,' individuals are still awaiting rescue. I urged all operational units to enhance their personnel and equipment to maximize efforts in saving lives," she stated.