New Delhi, July 28: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed her sorrow over the devastating earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan. She extended her condolences to the affected individuals and assured Japan of Italy’s solidarity and support during this challenging time.
Meloni took to the social media platform ‘X’ to share her sentiments, stating, “My heartfelt sympathies go out to the people of Japan. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the catastrophic earthquake in Kumamoto. I also want to express my gratitude to everyone working tirelessly in rescue and relief efforts; their dedication is commendable.”
She emphasized that the Italian government stands united with her friend, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, and the entire nation of Japan.
According to local media reports, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck southwestern Japan on Tuesday, resulting in one fatality and numerous injuries. There are concerns that several individuals may be trapped under the rubble.
The Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that part of the second floor of Aeon Mall Kumamoto collapsed, raising fears that many people might be trapped inside.
Reports indicate that firefighters are actively assessing the situation and conducting rescue operations.
According to Xinhua news, the agency confirmed that the injured have been transported to hospitals, but details regarding their numbers and conditions remain unclear.
Police and fire officials received multiple emergency calls around 6 PM local time, with callers reporting explosion-like sounds and visible white smoke emanating from Aeon Mall Kumamoto.
At Yatsushiro Station, a freight train derailed but fortunately, the train operator was unharmed.
Reports suggest that approximately 50 individuals have been taken to hospitals in Kumamoto. The local fire department has also received reports of people trapped inside their homes.
Kyodo reported that the earthquake struck at around 4:27 PM local time, with a depth of approximately ten kilometers. The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded a maximum intensity of seven on its seismic scale in the most affected areas.
A tsunami warning of one meter has been issued for the Ariake Sea and Yatsushiro Sea in southwestern Japan.
Both the Sendai Nuclear Power Plant in Kagoshima Prefecture and the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant in Saga Prefecture reported no irregularities.
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