Japan earthquake survivors in Kumamoto struggle with power outages, extreme heat, and damaged homes after a 7.1-magnitude quake claimed at least 30 lives.

KUMAMOTO, JAPAN: Survivors of Japan’s devastating 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes are once again facing tragedy after a powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the region, killing at least 30 people and leaving thousands without electricity, water, or safe shelter.

The latest disaster has revived painful memories for residents who are still haunted by the deadly earthquakes that struck the region a decade ago.

Residents Relive the Horror

Among those affected is 30-year-old Sachi Nishiyama, who spent two years in temporary housing after the twin earthquakes of 2016. This week, she was once again forced to leave her home and sleep inside her car after Tuesday’s powerful tremor.

“When this quake hit, I immediately knew the epicentre was close,” Nishiyama said.

“I never imagined something like this would happen here again.”

Although her car provides air conditioning and privacy, she described the situation as physically and emotionally exhausting.

Power and Water Outages Deepen Crisis

Two days after the earthquake, temperatures in Kumamoto reached nearly 35°C, with forecasts predicting 38°C over the weekend.

Thousands of homes remain without electricity and running water, forcing many residents to endure dangerous heat while struggling to secure drinking water and basic necessities.

Emergency shelters across the region are accommodating hundreds of displaced residents, particularly elderly people and those with medical conditions.

Shopping Mall Destroyed After Suspected Gas Explosion

The disaster also caused severe structural damage across Kumamoto.

A major Aeon shopping mall, which had undergone extensive renovations after being damaged in the 2016 earthquakes and had only recently reopened, was destroyed following a suspected gas explosion about an hour after Tuesday’s earthquake.

Authorities confirmed that four people died in the explosion.

Businessman Fumihiko Matsuura, who had visited the mall just days before the disaster, said he felt fortunate to have narrowly escaped tragedy.

“I was just here. It feels like I barely escaped the danger,” he said.

Aftershocks Keep Residents on Edge

Frequent aftershocks continue to shake the region several times each hour, leaving residents fearful of another major earthquake.

Many people have chosen to sleep in their vehicles rather than crowded evacuation centres, where privacy is limited.

Others have returned to damaged homes to salvage belongings despite the ongoing risk.

Emergency Shelters Fill With Displaced Families

Community centres, schools, and municipal buildings have been converted into emergency shelters.

Hundreds of elderly residents have been sleeping on thin mats spread across gymnasium floors and community halls while waiting for food, water, and updates from authorities.

One evacuee said the shelters were a blessing but admitted the crowded conditions made it difficult to rest.

Another resident, Marie Ryuzaki, said the windows of her apartment shattered during the earthquake.

“I saw my household appliances fly across the room,” she recalled.

Recovery Efforts Continue

While convenience stores have reopened in many areas, shortages of fresh food and essential supplies continue.

Local supermarket worker Hiroyuki Matsushima said the biggest challenge remains the loss of basic utilities.

“In this extreme heat, living without electricity or air conditioning is incredibly difficult,” he said.

Authorities continue search, rescue, and recovery operations while engineers inspect damaged buildings and restore essential services.

The latest Japan earthquake has once again highlighted the country’s vulnerability to powerful seismic activity and the long-term emotional toll repeated natural disasters have on affected communities.