Japan: Explosion at restaurant kills one in Koriyama (Fukushima Prefecture) July 30

Event

An explosion that occurred at a temporarily closed restaurant in the 2 Chome Shima area of Koriyama (Fukushima Prefecture) at 09:00 (local time) killed at least one person and injured 18 others on Thursday, July 30. The blast destroyed the building and damaged a nearby bank, where four people were injured before it was evacuated. Authorities also evacuated residents in the vicinity of the incident, and a number of residential buildings have sustained minor damage. An investigation into the blast is ongoing, and firefighters have located gas cylinders at the scene which appear to have leaked.

Expect localized disruptions in the near term as investigations and clear-up operations continue. 

Advice

Those in the Koriyama should be aware of the potential for travel disruptions in the 2 Chome Shima area in the near term and are advised to monitor developments and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.