Earthquakes have rocked central Japan on New Years Day, killing at least 48, and causing widespread destruction and chaos.
Crews are racing against time to rescue people trapped under rubble following a series of devastating earthquakes that struck Japan on New Year’s Day, killing at least 48 people, knocking down structures, and leaving thousands without power.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported more than a dozen quakes in the Japan Sea off the coast of Ishikawa and nearby prefectures on New Year’s Day, the largest of which had a magnitude of 7.6. The quakes collapsed buildings and triggered fires on the west coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu. JMA says more major quakes could hit the area over the next week, especially in the next two or three days.
At least 48 people have been confirmed dead so far, according to Ishikawa prefecture officials. They are located in the city of Wajima, Ishikawa, near the epicenter of the quake, where the highest tsunami of over 1.2 meters (4 feet) was recorded in the city’s port. Japanese government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi told the media that several houses have been destroyed, leaving people trapped and an unknown number injured.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters late on Monday that it was proving difficult for search and rescue teams to reach the worst-affected areas due to blocked roads and other damage. He said the Japanese government will continue to share information as it becomes available.
“To secure the route there, we are to mobilize all the means of transport, not only on the ground but also by aerial and marine transport. We have been making an effort to transfer goods, supplies, and personnel there since last night,” Mr. Kishida said.
Tsunami Warnings
JMA initially issued tsunami warnings for Niigata and Toyama prefectures as well, with a major tsunami warning for Ishikawa. However, the warnings were later downgraded to an advisory and removed by Tuesday morning. Over 100,000 people across nine prefectures were instructed to evacuate to higher ground, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
