Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake Kills at Least 23 in Kumamoto, Japan

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan, on July 28, 2026, at a depth of 10 km. The prefectural government reports at least 23 deaths. Over 100 aftershocks followed, hampering rescue access. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called the effort a "race against time." Three people remain missing inside the partially collapsed Aeon mall, where an explosion occurred roughly 50 minutes after the mainshock.