7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Kumamoto, Japan

Details on the 7.1 magnitude quake's epicenter in Uki, Kumamoto, and initial impact.

Prime Minister Takaichi's statement on damage assessment and evacuation orders for 300,000 people.

Reports of an explosion at the largest mall in the province and the disappearance of 20-30 staff members.

Company spokespeople discuss the evacuation and the investigation into a possible gas leak causing the explosion.

Search operations at Aeon Mall and reports of a collapsed chimney at Nippon Paper Industry.

Major companies including TSMC, Sony, Fuji, and Honda suspend operations in Kumamoto.

Warnings for aftershocks, landslides, and the status of the tsunami alert.

State of emergency declared in multiple prefectures and safety checks at nuclear power plants.

The collapse of the historic stone walls of Kumamoto Castle.

Visual evidence and testimonies regarding the Aeon Mall explosion and evacuation chaos.

Panic and structural damage reported at the Costco wholesale warehouse.

House fires and footage of the earthquake's intensity from residential rooms.

Closure of Aso Kumamoto Airport and suspension of JR Kyushu and Shinkansen trains.

Severe cracks and structural shifts on the Kyushu Expressway near Yatsushiro.

Comparison with the devastating 2016 earthquake and the irony of the new Aeon Mall's opening.