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A 7.1-magnitude earthquake has struck Japan’s southwestern Kumamoto Prefecture, leaving widespread damage and at least 50 people injured.
Police say several people inside a shopping mall are presumed dead after reports that people were trapped inside following the quake.
Buildings have collapsed and an explosion was reported at the mall as terrified shoppers were caught in the powerful tremor.
Tens of thousands of people are without power, while around 300,000 residents have been told to evacuate and seek shelter.
The earthquake has also disrupted transport, with the local airport closed and train services severely affected.
Japanese authorities are warning residents to remain vigilant, saying more strong earthquakes and landslides could occur in the coming week.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered authorities to prioritise saving lives and coordinate emergency response efforts.
Al Jazeera’s Ama Boateng reports.
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