Emergency crews across southern Japan are engaged in what officials describe as a race against time after a powerful earthquake left widespread destruction, claiming lives and trapping an unknown number of people beneath collapsed buildings.

As search and rescue operations continue, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered thousands of military personnel to assist local emergency services in one of the country’s largest disaster response efforts this year.

Rescue Operations Continue Around the Clock

Authorities say at least 14 people have died following the earthquake, while rescue teams continue searching damaged structures for survivors.

The disaster has severely impacted Kumamoto Prefecture, where firefighters, police officers, medical teams, and members of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces are working together to reach those who may still be trapped.

Officials have emphasized that the first hours following a major earthquake are critical, making every rescue mission a race against time.

Shopping Mall Among Hardest-Hit Locations

One of the most devastating incidents occurred at Aeon Mall Kumamoto, where part of the shopping complex collapsed following an explosion that struck after the earthquake.

According to the mall’s operator, at least five people have been confirmed dead inside the complex.

Among the victims were three employees working at the shopping center when the disaster occurred.

Emergency officials also reported that three additional people remain missing, with rescue teams continuing to search unstable sections of the building.

Investigators Examine Possible Gas Leak

Authorities believe the explosion that damaged the shopping mall may have been caused by a gas leak triggered by the earthquake.

Rescue workers reported smelling gas shortly after arriving at the scene, prompting investigators to examine whether leaking gas contributed to the partial collapse.

Officials have not yet reached a final conclusion, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Thousands Were Inside the Commercial Complex

Before the earthquake struck, Aeon Mall Kumamoto was operating as one of the region’s busiest shopping destinations.

The complex employed approximately 2,700 staff members and housed around 200 stores, restaurants, and service businesses, including internationally recognized retailers such as H&M and Uniqlo, along with a cinema complex.

The scale of the facility has made rescue operations especially challenging as crews carefully search through damaged areas while attempting to avoid further structural collapse.

Residents Describe the Moment Disaster Struck

People living near the shopping center recalled experiencing both the violent shaking and the powerful explosion.

Local resident Yuko Yonemitsu, who lives across the street from the mall, described the blast as overwhelmingly loud.

She said the explosion was so intense that it hurt her ears, making it difficult to determine whether the sound came from the earthquake itself or from another event occurring nearby.

Her account reflects the confusion experienced by many residents during the rapidly unfolding emergency.

Historic Temples Sustain Heavy Damage

Beyond the loss of life and damage to commercial buildings, the earthquake also caused significant destruction to cultural and historical sites.

Several temples throughout Kumamoto Prefecture suffered extensive structural damage.

Among them was a worship hall at Yatsushiro Shrine, where surveyors believe the destruction is severe enough that the structure may ultimately be classified as a total loss.

The damage represents another painful setback for communities now facing both humanitarian and cultural losses.

Military Joins Massive Emergency Response

In response to the disaster, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi ordered thousands of members of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to support rescue and relief operations.

The troops are working alongside local firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel to accelerate search efforts, clear debris, and provide assistance to affected communities.

Authorities say every available resource is being mobilized to locate survivors and deliver aid as quickly as possible.

Search for Survivors Continues

Rescue teams remain focused on locating anyone who may still be trapped beneath collapsed structures.

With damaged buildings, unstable debris, and concerns about additional aftershocks, operations remain both dangerous and complex.

Officials continue urging residents to follow emergency guidance while recovery efforts move forward.

As southern Japan confronts another devastating natural disaster, communities across the region are united in supporting those affected while hoping rescuers can reach survivors before time runs out.

Source: edition.cnn