The death toll from a powerful earthquake in southwestern Japan rises to 34, according to the Kumamoto prefectural government. Multiple outlets report that rescue teams continue searching in Kumamoto, including at the site of a damaged mall that suffered some of the most serious destruction. Reports describe other major damage in the region, including a factory chimney that has toppled and widespread damage to homes.
Several sources indicate that rescuers conduct renewed or ongoing searches as part of efforts to locate survivors. The Independent and ABC News say the quake triggers an explosion at the mall, while other coverage highlights the mall collapse as a focal point for search operations.
Overall, the accounts converge on the same figures and setting: a southwestern Japan earthquake causes extensive structural damage in Kumamoto, with the mall collapse and its aftermath driving sustained search and rescue activity as the reported fatalities reach 34.
