Japan's Kumamoto earthquake leaves 12 dead, 6 in cardiac arrest

Twelve people have been confirmed dead following a powerful earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan, while six others remain in cardiac arrest, local media reported Wednesday, citing the latest official figures. Speaking at a disaster response headquarters meeting held shortly after 4:00 p.m.

local time, prefectural officials said that 62 people had also been injured, while at least four people remain unaccounted for, public broadcaster NHK reported. Rescue and search operations are ongoing in the affected areas as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties.