Japan's south-western Kyushu island experienced two powerful earthquakes within an hour on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The initial magnitude-7.1 quake struck Kumamoto Prefecture at 4:35pm local time (5:35pm AEST), followed by 26 aftershocks and a magnitude-6.1 tremor at 5:12pm (6:12pm AEST).

The earthquakes hit just south of the town of Uki, near Kumamoto's capital city. Seismology authorities from Geoscience Australia and the United States Geological Survey reported the initial quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres below the sea's surface.

Following the quake, the JMA issued a tsunami warning for a wave measuring 1 metre. Power outages, fires, damaged roads and bridges, and collapsed buildings have been reported in some areas.

Multiple people were trapped inside an Aeon Mall in Kumamoto after an explosion occurred post-earthquake, with the mall's second floor collapsing. Between 20 and 30 workers trapped inside could not be reached, according to broadcaster NHK.

One hospital reported more than 50 injuries. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated, "We are still assessing the extent of injuries and property damage, but I have been informed that there have already been several injuries."

A large cloud of smoke was seen billowing near the affected area, with wind carrying ash-like particles around the mall.

The UN nuclear watchdog confirmed that Japan's nuclear regulation authority reported no damage or safety issues at the Sendai nuclear power plant following the earthquake.

Sources