A dashcam video captured the moment a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Japan's Kumamoto prefecture, showing vehicles swaying at the Namazu intersection near the Aeon Mall as an earthquake alert was broadcast. The quake caused significant damage, with at least 100 people injured and two fatalities reported inside a shopping mall.
Earthquake Details and Impact
According to Japanese authorities, the earthquake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, triggering strong shaking that lasted several seconds. The dashcam footage shows cars and trucks moving erratically as the ground shook, with the alert system warning residents to take cover. The Aeon Mall, a major shopping center, suffered structural damage, leading to the deaths of two individuals and injuries to dozens more.
Response and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services responded swiftly, with rescue teams searching for survivors in collapsed structures. Local hospitals reported treating over 100 patients for injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to fractures. The Japanese Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami advisory for coastal areas, though no significant waves were reported. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that the government was mobilizing all available resources to assist affected regions.
