🚨 BREAKING: Explosion Hits AEON Mall Kumamoto After Earthquake, Rescue Operation Underway
A major emergency response is underway in Kumamoto, Japan, after a powerful earthquake was followed by a large explosion at AEON Mall Kumamoto in Kashima Town, causing part of the shopping center to collapse.
According to Japanese fire and police authorities, the explosion occurred at around 5:50 p.m. on July 28 in the central area of the building. Reports indicate that part of the second floor collapsed, while rescue teams are working urgently to determine whether anyone remains trapped inside.
At least two people have been confirmed injured, and both were reported to be conscious. Authorities said around 200 people were able to evacuate to the parking area after hearing the explosion.
Footage captured from the air reportedly showed severe damage to the mall, including a destroyed exterior wall, exposed steel structures, roof damage, and a large opening in the upper section of the building.
Witnesses described hearing a powerful blast followed by a large cloud of dust and smoke rising from the shopping center. Some nearby residents reported debris and white dust covering vehicles in the area after the explosion.
Several stores inside the mall said employees were able to evacuate before the incident, with no injuries reported among their staff at those locations.
Japanese authorities are continuing to ᴀssess the extent of the damage and investigate the cause of the explosion. Officials have not yet released a confirmed number of casualties, and rescue operations remain ongoing.
Source: NHK News, Japanese fire and police authorities.
