Japan races to rescue survivors after Kyushu quake

Sun Sep 06 2026 00:37:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A 6.8 quake on Kyushu kills at least 13 and leaves many trapped; rescue teams pushed into rubble, but the death toll may rise.

A powerful 6.8‑magnitude earthquake struck Japan’s Kyushu island on Tuesday, collapsing buildings and trapping residents under rubble. Official reports confirm at least 13 fatalities, with dozens still missing and thousands displaced. Rescue crews equipped with heavy machinery have scrambled to pry survivors from torn‑apart homes, yet the potential for further casualties remains high. Authorities are evaluating the extent of damage and debating the logistics of medical and evacuation support amid ongoing aftershocks.

Kyushu earthquake: Thousands trapped and a race to rescue

On Tuesday, a 6.8‑magnitude quake rippled across the island of Kyushu, Japan, flattening structures and leaving many residents buried beneath debris. The Japan Meteorological Agency first reported at least 13 confirmed deaths, while dozens remain missing and thousands displaced from their homes.

Emergency responders and volunteers quickly mobilised, deploying heavy rescue equipment to reach those still trapped. In the first 24 hours, teams were already working beneath collapsed roofs, yet the death toll is expected to climb as search continues.

Authorities are also preparing for aftershocks and possible secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction, which could complicate rescue efforts.

For full details of the response and ongoing updates, read more here.