Kumamoto Faces Dual Crisis of Earthquake and Heatwave; Takaiichi Promises $200 Million in Aid

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, has resulted in 38 fatalities, compounded by an unprecedented heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. In response to the escalating hardships faced by evacuees, the Japanese government has pledged significant financial and administrative support to address the crisis.

On August 3, Kumamoto City recorded a high of 40.3 degrees Celsius, marking the first time temperatures in the region have surpassed 40 degrees. Local media reported that the extreme heat, coupled with the aftermath of the earthquake that struck on July 28, has made recovery efforts and the living conditions for evacuees increasingly difficult.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaiichi visited the affected areas for the first time since the earthquake. During her visit, she announced a proactive budget allocation of approximately 20 billion yen (about $182 million) for recovery efforts in Kumamoto.

Additionally, she stated that the government would designate the situation as a 'specific emergency disaster' to expedite various administrative procedures involved in the recovery process. A large ferry is scheduled to arrive at Yatsushiro Port in Kumamoto on August 4 to facilitate the provision of temporary housing and medical services for evacuees.

Takaiichi's inspection was conducted via helicopter from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, where she assessed the damage at the Aeon Mall Kumamoto, which experienced explosions and collapses, as well as the area surrounding the Yatsushiro factory of Nippon Paper Industries, where a chimney fell.

Following her aerial tour, Takaiichi visited a temporary evacuation center set up in Hikawacho, where she listened to the concerns of evacuees and discussed government support measures.

Meanwhile, Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that the earthquake has caused direct and indirect damage to 1,970 agricultural facilities and 389 plots of farmland in Kumamoto.