Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 30 as rescuers keep searching through extreme heat
A magnitude 6.8 earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, has resulted in 34 deaths and widespread infrastructure damage. Survivors in evacuation centers are struggling with extreme heat, prompting the government to distribute air conditioning units.
Why it matters
The disaster highlights the compounding risks of natural disasters and extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for resilient emergency infrastructure.
Image source, JIJI Press / AFP via Getty Images Image caption, The quake caused widespread damage to houses and power lines across Kumamoto prefecture
The number of people who have died after a powerful earthquake hit southwestern Japan has risen to 34, authorities in Kumamoto prefecture said on Thursday.
Rescuers are still working to find survivors after the magnitude 6.8 earthquake hit Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu island on Tuesday, causing widespread damage to houses and power lines.
Several people died after part of a shopping centre collapsed and an explosion ripped through the mall about an hour later.
Thousands of displaced residents are now staying in evacuation centres - though the challenge is to keep them cool and hydrated as the region battles sweltering heat.
Temperatures could reach 39C in the prefecture in the coming days, according to forecasts, with officials urging survivors and rescuers to take precautions against heatstroke.
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