Safety
AEON MALL Explosion Following 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Kumamoto
A 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, has triggered a major structural collapse and explosion at an AEON MALL, leaving over 20 employees unaccounted for.
On July 28, 2026, a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kumamoto, Japan, causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of an AEON MALL. According to reports from Khaosod Online Thailand, dashcam footage captured the moment the shopping center suffered an explosion, sending debris flying and resulting in a total structural failure.
Emergency response efforts are currently underway to rescue individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Authorities have confirmed that at least 50 people have sustained injuries across the region. The earthquake has also caused significant damage to local infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and residential buildings, while triggering widespread power outages.
For travelers and residents in the Kumamoto area, the situation remains critical. The structural integrity of remaining buildings is uncertain, and ongoing aftershocks pose a continued risk. Transportation networks are severely disrupted, and utility services may be unavailable for an extended period.
As of now, the status of more than 20 employees at the mall remains unknown, and rescue teams are working to locate them. Experts are currently investigating the specific cause of the explosion at the mall, as it occurred shortly after the initial seismic activity. Those in the region are advised to follow local emergency directives and monitor official government channels for updates on safety zones and evacuation procedures.
Translated from Thai.
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