Two powerful earthquakes a day apart shook a region in southern Japan, killing at least 29 people, injuring 1,500 and trapping many others beneath flattened homes.
The exact number of casualties remained unclear as rescue efforts in southern Kyushu island continued to unfold.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed concerns about secondary disasters from mudslides as the weather forecast for the area predicted rain and strong winds.
Mr Abe said “daytime today is the big test” for rescue efforts.
Landslides have already cut off roads and destroyed bridges, hindering rescue and relief efforts.
Japanese government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said 1,500 people were injured by the twin quakes on Thursday evening and early Saturday, 80 of them seriously.
He said the military will be boosted to 20,000 for rescue efforts. Police and firefighters are also being ordered to the region.
In a nationally televised news conference, Mr Suga asked people not to panic.
“Please let’s help each other and stay calm,” he urged
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