Japan's Kyushu Island Shaken to Its Core The magnitude 6. 8 earthquake that struck Kumamoto prefecture in southwestern Japan on April 16 is a stark reminder of the country's vulnerability to seismic activity.
The tremors caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and sparking fires in Kumamoto City, leaving thousands without power and hundreds trapped.
Kumamoto region has experienced its share of earthquakes; a devastating magnitude 7. 3 quake struck the area just a year ago, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes.