A powerful 7.1‑magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on 28 July 2026, causing widespread destruction, casualties, and fires. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India’s solidarity with Japan, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi mobilised emergency programs, deploying thousands of personnel to manage rescue, relief, and evacuation efforts.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed deep concern over the disaster, extending condolences and prayers for the safety and recovery of those affected. He emphasised India’s solidarity with the Japanese government and people as they respond to the crisis.

The earthquake struck at 4:27 p.m. local time in Kumamoto Prefecture, registering the maximum seismic intensity of 7 on Japan’s Shindo scale.

The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed its magnitude at 7.1, while the US Geological Survey recorded it at 6.8 due to methodological differences. The tremor lasted about 16 seconds and originated at a depth of 10 kilometres along the Hinagu Fault system.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi immediately established an Emergency Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters at 6:20 p.m. and convened the first emergency response meeting at 7:49 p.m. She pledged that the government would work tirelessly through the night to assess damage, rescue victims, and deliver essential supplies.

Her statement highlighted urgent measures to provide food, water, mobile power vehicles, and simple air conditioners to prevent heatstroke, while ensuring safe evacuation environments.

The disaster caused confirmed structural collapses, road damage, fires, and casualties. Reports indicated at least 13 deaths, more than 387 injuries, and 24 missing persons. Hospitals treated dozens of injured, including passengers aboard a high‑speed train. Thousands of homes lost power, and major roads such as the Kyushu Expressway suffered ruptures.

A particularly severe incident occurred at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto, where part of the second floor collapsed following an explosion around 5:50 p.m. Fire services reported multiple people trapped, with two women confirmed dead and others rescued. Authorities are investigating a possible gas explosion as the cause.

Historic sites were also damaged, including sections of Kumamoto Castle’s stone walls. NHK footage showed lamps swinging violently, shelves collapsing, and clouds of dust rising as structures cracked. The quake triggered a tsunami advisory for the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas, though it was later lifted when no threatening waves materialised.

Prime Minister Takaichi spoke directly with Kumamoto Governor Kimura around 10:00 p.m., assuring comprehensive national support. Approximately 3,00,000 residents were directed to evacuation centres, while 3,600 soldiers were dispatched to assist with disaster recovery.

The earthquake revived memories of the 2016 Kumamoto disaster, when dual intensity‑7 quakes killed more than 270 people. Japan’s preparedness has improved since then, with rapid deployment of resources and better coordination. However, aftershocks remain a major concern, with tremors of lower intensity continuing through the night.

Japan’s vulnerability stems from its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates frequently interact. Scientists noted that the southern portion of the Hinagu Fault likely slipped, transferring stress from the northern segment activated in 2016.

India’s expression of solidarity underscores the importance of international cooperation in disaster relief. The tragedy highlights both Japan’s resilience and the ongoing risks posed by seismic activity in the region.

ANI