Kumamoto Earthquake Kills 13; Japan Races Against Time for Survivors

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Wednesday said that 13 people have died in the '2026 Kumamoto Earthquake' of magnitude-7.1 as authorities continue search and rescue operations amid widespread destruction caused by the disaster.

In a post on X, Takaichi said that, as of 10:30 am (local time), the earthquake had resulted in 13 fatalities, including deaths still under investigation for disaster-related causes, while extensive damage had been reported across the affected region.

The Prime Minister expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and sympathised with those affected by the disaster.

"We extend our deepest condolences to those who have passed away, and we solemnly offer our sympathies to their bereaved families. We also extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the disaster," she said.

What steps is Japan taking after the Kumamoto earthquake to assess damage and coordinate response?

Takaichi said the government is working to rapidly assess the damage while coordinating emergency response efforts across ministries and agencies.

She thanked local government officials, police, firefighters, the Japan Coast Guard and the Self-Defense Forces for continuing search and rescue operations despite difficult conditions.

"There are still people awaiting rescue, and time is of the essence. We will mobilise every resource on the ground to aim for the rescue and saving of as many lives as possible," she said.

The Prime Minister also urged caution as hot weather continues in the disaster-hit areas. "The disaster area is experiencing continued hot weather, so please take every precaution against heatstroke, including for those engaged in search and rescue or recovery operations," she said.

Takaichi said the government is working to restore electricity and water supplies, while the Self-Defense Forces are carrying out water distribution and patient transport operations.

She added that emergency supplies, including food, drinking water, cardboard beds, toilet paper, air conditioners and power generators, are being delivered to evacuation centres through coordinated efforts by government agencies.

"As the Takai Cabinet, we will do everything possible," Takaichi said.

She also announced that the government would convene the second Extraordinary Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters meeting later in the day to review the latest situation and accelerate relief and recovery efforts.

"Starting at 1:30 p.m. today, we will hold the 'Second Extraordinary Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters Meeting' regarding the '2026 Kumamoto Earthquake' to share the latest situation and accelerate our initiatives,” she said.

(With inputs from ANI)