TOKYO, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Multiple fatalities are feared following an explosion at a shopping mall on Tuesday in Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture after a powerful earthquake struck the region earlier, broadcaster TBS reported.
Following the magnitude-7.1 quake, which struck at around 4:27 p.m. local time in Kumamoto Prefecture, an explosion occurred at AEON Mall Kumamoto, a major shopping complex in Kashima Town in the prefecture.
According to Kumamoto Prefectural Police, the explosion is believed to have caused a large number of deaths, the report said. A police official said authorities expect "many fatalities," adding that it will take time to confirm the exact death toll.
Emergency response operations are continuing at the site as rescue workers search the damaged facility, the report said. ■
