As strong earthquakes continue to rattle Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture, four injured people have been transported to the hospital from Aeon Mall Kumamoto, where an explosion was reported. Authorities are continuing search operations amid the possibility that additional individuals remain inside the facility.

4 Transported from Aeon Mall Kumamoto... "20-30 People May Remain Inside"

According to the Kamimashiki Fire Department Headquarters, which has jurisdiction over Kashima Town where Aeon Mall Kumamoto is located, four people were transported to the hospital by ambulance from the mall as of 9:10 p.m. on the 28th. The exact extent of the injuries of the four transported individuals has not yet been confirmed, but all are reportedly conscious.

A police official stated that information has been obtained suggesting that 20 to 30 people may remain inside the Aeon Mall Kumamoto facility. However, it is still being confirmed whether these individuals include customers and whether there are actual casualties. Fire authorities are also continuing rescue operations, believing that people may be trapped inside or unable to get out.

All Kumamoto Prefecture Post Offices to Suspend Counter Services on the 29th

As a consequence of the earthquake, postal services within Kumamoto Prefecture are also being suspended. Japan Post announced that all post offices in Kumamoto Prefecture will suspend counter services on the 29th. Even in areas outside the prefecture, some post offices may additionally suspend counter services if damage is confirmed.

Total of 13 Injured at Railways and Stations... Multiple Injuries on Shinkansen as Well

Injuries have been successively confirmed at railways and stations as well. According to JR Kyushu, as of 9:30 p.m. on the 28th, six people were injured within the premises of Shin-Yatsushiro Station, three of whom were transported to the hospital. Two people were also injured inside a Shinkansen train stopped at Shin-Yatsushiro Station and were taken to the hospital. Five injuries were also confirmed on a Shinkansen train that had stopped on an elevated track between Shin-Minamata Station and Shin-Yatsushiro Station. Train crew members are checking the health conditions of the injured, but the exact extent of injuries has not yet been determined. The total number of injuries confirmed so far on Shinkansen trains and at stations stands at 13.

Local police, fire authorities, and railway operators are conducting rescue operations and confirming passenger safety while investigating the possibility of further damage.

[Avoid approaching disaster-affected areas and damaged buildings, and check official guidance from the Japan Meteorological Agency and local municipalities. This article was written with AI assistance.]