A strong earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck southwestern Japan, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and numerous injuries, according to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The quake hit inland on Kyushu island, causing significant destruction, including a collapsed factory chimney and major damage to a shopping mall in Kumamoto. Rescue teams are urgently searching for survivors trapped beneath debris, using heavy machinery and search dogs. Authorities warn of potential aftershocks, while local hospitals struggle under the strain, with some patients treated in temporary facilities.
The event is among the most severe quakes to affect the region recently, evoking memories of the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes. The Japanese government has activated military support for rescue operations, and international aid is beginning to arrive. Families remain anxious as efforts continue through the night. NovaTube News delivers live video coverage from YouTube, aggregating real-time reports without requiring user accounts. Minimal technical data is collected to enhance service performance.