The death toll from the shopping mall explosion following a major earthquake in Japan has now risen to 3. The third victim experienced sudden cardiac and respiratory arrest before dying, while rescue teams have successfully evacuated 8 people trapped inside.
Search and rescue operations at Aeon Mall in Kumamoto Prefecture continued throughout the night after a strong earthquake struck the previous evening, causing explosions and the collapse of the building's second floor.
Officials from the Kumamoto Prefecture Disaster Prevention and Relief Department have confirmed that the death toll has increased to 3, with the latest victim suffering sudden cardiac and respiratory arrest before passing away.
A spokesperson for Kumamoto Prefecture reported that rescuers have freed 8 people from the rubble, including 4 with moderate injuries, 1 with minor injuries, and 1 in cardiac and respiratory arrest. Authorities are still verifying the number of missing persons and those possibly trapped inside, as information continues to change.
Meanwhile, the earthquake has had widespread effects across Kumamoto Prefecture, including the collapse of a chimney at a paper mill where 2 people were found in cardiac and respiratory arrest, and 9 others remain missing.
Additionally, at least 45 hospitals and medical facilities have suffered damage due to power outages, disruptions to water supply, and damage to medical gas systems. The Kumamoto city government has temporarily advised residents to avoid drinking tap water and using it for cooking after some areas reported cloudy water, pending safety confirmation.
The earthquake also damaged historical sites from the 17th century, notably Kumamoto Castle, where sections of the surrounding walls partially collapsed. Assessments of other damage are ongoing.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has deployed more than 3,600 rescue and disaster relief personnel to support search and recovery efforts and reconstruction. She affirmed continued efforts to locate missing persons and assess damage. Meanwhile, the Japan Meteorological Agency warned the public to remain vigilant for aftershocks following an initial quake measured at magnitude 7.1, although the U.S. Geological Survey estimated it at 6.8.
. Source:BBC
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