PM Sanae Takaichi visits quake-hit southern Japan as cleanup begins in intense heat

More than 46,000 households in Kumamoto Prefecture remain without water nearly a week after an earthquake hit the region. Many also face fuel shortages, adding to the challenges in severely damaged areas. The region is experiencing sweltering heat, with temperatures predicted to rise close to 40 C (104 F), stoking fears of heat-related illness, according to the Associated Press.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited the quake-hit area, where residents are putting out heaps of debris for collection and construction of temporary housing has begun in some towns. More than 8,500 people remain at crowded emergency shelters. Thirty-eight people died during the quake, including one who died of apparent heat stroke.

The intense heat and lack of water supplies are exacerbating the difficulties in the affected areas. According to Euronews and Channel News Asia, the situation remains dire for many households struggling with the aftermath of the earthquake.

Brief written by urgent.news from Euronews, Channel News Asia, Associated Press, The Guardian — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.