Continuing aftershocks in southern Japan (Kumamoto, Kyushu Island) are reminding people of the earthquake that rocked the region the night before. Nine people are dead and more than 1,100 others injured. The magnitude 7.3 quake also registered the highest possible intensity on the Japanese sesmic scale. Many people in Masahiki, where the strongest joit was recorded, have gathered as the municipal office to get daily necessities. Self-Defense Force members are preparing food and suppying water and blankets. Some people had to spend the whole night outside because of the danger of building collapsing by aftershocks. About 11,000 houses are without electricity and more than 58,000 without water. The gas supply has been shut off for a part of Kumamoto City for safty reasons.