Japan mall collapses in 7.1-magnitude earthquake, trapping shoppers inside

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan, causing a partial mall collapse that trapped shoppers, injured over 50 people, and left 20 to 30 unaccounted for, prompting the government to launch an emergency task force.

Japan Mall Collapses After 7.1-Magnitude Earthquake

Shoppers trapped, a castle wall down, and a nation on alert. According to Newsweek, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan on Tuesday, partially collapsing Aeon Mall Kumamoto in Kashima and trapping shoppers inside, with 20 to 30 people unaccounted for.

More than 50 people were hospitalised, a train derailed near Yatsushiro station, and a factory chimney collapse left several missing. A tsunami advisory was briefly issued before being lifted.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed a task force has been launched, urging citizens to evacuate to safety and remain vigilant, warning aftershocks of similar intensity could continue for about a week. The historic Kumamoto Castle also suffered wall damage.