Dhaka, July 30 -- The death toll from a powerful earthquake in southwestern Japan has risen to 30, with rescuers continuing to search for survivors in the worst-hit areas, the BBC reports.

The magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu island on Tuesday, damaging homes and power lines.

Several people were killed after part of a shopping centre collapsed, while an explosion ripped through the mall about an hour later.

Around 9,000 displaced residents are staying in evacuation centres, where authorities are struggling to keep people cool and hydrated as the region endures sweltering heat, according to the British broadcaster.

Forecasts indicate temperatures could reach 39 degrees Celsius in the prefecture in the comin...