Powerful Earthquake Hits Japan, Trapping People in a Collapsed Mall

A powerful earthquake hit Kumamoto, Japan, on July 28, 2026, reaching Shindo 7 — the highest level on Japan's shaking scale. A mall's upper floor collapsed in Kashima town, trapping many shoppers. Buildings burned, roads cracked, and trains and flights stopped. A tsunami warning was issued, then called off. Prime Minister Takaichi formed an emergency team.