The Japanese government has confirmed that 28 people have died as a result of the earthquake that struck Kumamoto on July 28, including those whose deaths are under investigation for a possible connection to the quake.
According to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) on July 30, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated at a press conference that as of 6:30 a.m., the death toll from the Kumamoto earthquake stands at 28, including individuals whose deaths are being examined for their relation to the earthquake.
Five fatalities were reported at the Ion Mall Kumamoto in Kashima and five at the Nippon Paper Industries Yatsushiro plant in Yatsushiro City, both of which experienced explosions following the earthquake.
However, a prior report from Kumamoto Prefecture indicated that the death toll was 17, highlighting a discrepancy with the central government's figures.
Kihara explained the difference between the government and prefectural reports as a result of “timing differences in data collection.” The central government releases figures compiled by police and fire authorities, while the prefecture aggregates data from cities and towns, which takes more time.
“Ultimately, the numbers will align, but discrepancies can occur during the data collection process,” he said, emphasizing that the government is focused on promptly communicating the extent of the damage to the public.
Regarding the earthquake's potential impact on the Japanese economy, Kihara stated, “At this stage, it is difficult to make predictions or assess the details.” He noted that some semiconductor and automobile factories temporarily halted operations to assess damage but are working to resume production.
He added that the government will closely monitor the recovery of infrastructure, including ports, and the impact on economic activities, including supply chains.
Some emergency repairs have been completed at Yatsushiro Port and Kumamoto Port. The Japanese government is also facilitating the entry of Japan Coast Guard vessels to provide water supply support.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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