Severe Earthquakes Shake Japan and Other Regions

Kumamoto, Japan — A powerful earthquake struck the Aso region of Kumamoto at approximately 6:01 p.m. on November 25, 2025. The quake caused significant damage, including toppling a residential gate in Aso City and scattering roof tiles across the road. Reports also indicated rockfalls and other damage in nearby areas.

In Ubuyama Village, which experienced a strong Intensity 5 tremor, a large boulder crashed onto a prefectural road, blocking traffic. This incident occurred after a driver encountered falling rocks following the earthquake. The driver noted that he had received an earthquake alert on his phone before the tremor and attempted to navigate a slope but failed to identify a smaller rock in his path.

The quake also impacted local businesses. In Aso City, products fell from shelves at a nearby drugstore, resulting in damage to multiple items. Store staff were seen gathering and sorting broken goods, including bottles spilled on the floor.

The recent earthquake is part of a trend; on November 24 and 25, at least three earthquakes greater than magnitude 5 were recorded worldwide, with a total of 584 quakes measured over a two-day period. However, no earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher have occurred in this timeframe.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as residents recover from the impacts of this seismic event around Kumamoto.