The death toll in Japan rises to 28. Image: keystone
July 30, 2026, 06:59July 30, 2026, 06:59
According to the central government, the number of deaths after the severe earthquake in southwest Japan has risen to 28. The number reported by the police includes victims whose deaths are suspected to be related to the disaster, the Japanese TV broadcaster NHK quoted a government spokesman in Tokyo as saying. The affected Kumamoto prefecture on Japan’s southwestern main island had previously reported 17 confirmed deaths, according to the Kyodo news agency.
Meanwhile, search and rescue work continues. The magnitude 7.1 quake on Tuesday afternoon (local time) destroyed many buildings in the region. It is therefore feared that the number of deaths will continue to rise. According to local media reports, dozens of people also suffered injuries.
A day after a severe earthquake, thousands of households were still without electricity and water supplies. More than 10,000 people had to remain in emergency accommodation early on Thursday. (sda/dpa)