At approximately 4:27 p.m. on July 28, a major earthquake registering a maximum seismic intensity of 7 on the Japanese scale struck the Kumamoto region. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported a magnitude of 7.1.
For the latest information about damage, evacuations, and transportation, please check updates from official government agencies and reliable news organizations.
Please do not rely on unverified information or rumors shared on social media.
Checking the Safety of Family and Friends
To check the safety of someone in Japan, we recommend using the Disaster Emergency Message Dial web service, Web171.
During a major disaster, phone and internet connections may become congested. Power outages may also make it difficult to contact family members and friends.
Web171 Disaster Emergency Message Board
https://www.web171.jp/
Official Information and News Sources
The Asahi Shimbun — 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake
https://www.asahi.com/sp/topics/AP-24487cd7-3d12-40ad-a1d5-1b0afa98e85f/?iref=sp_gnavi
NHK WORLD-JAPAN
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/
Kumamoto Prefectural Government
https://www.pref.kumamoto.jp/soshiki/1/274517.html
Kumamoto Disaster Prevention Information
https://portal.bousai.pref.kumamoto.jp/
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC
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