Japan Rocked by Earthquakes: Fatalities and Destruction Reported
Japan faced a devastating start to the new year with a series of strong earthquakes striking on New Year's Day. The tremors, which caused significant destruction and loss of life, have left the nation in a state of emergency. At least four people have been confirmed dead, with many others injured and numerous buildings reduced to rubble.
The quakes, which included one with a magnitude of 7.6, occurred off the Ishikawa coast, about 325 miles west of Tokyo. The aftermath has seen dozens of survivors being treated at hospitals, and it is feared that more people might still be trapped under collapsed structures. Adding to the challenges, a forecast of snow and damaged roads might hinder rescue efforts, with boats being considered as a possible means to deliver manpower and supplies.
In Wajima city, approximately 50 buildings in a market area were engulfed in flames, as reported by NHK TV. These buildings were largely believed to be unoccupied at the time of the quake.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has taken charge of the disaster response, ensuring coordination with affected cities and offering assurance of the nation's commitment to recovery. The United States has also extended support, with President Joe Biden expressing readiness to provide necessary assistance.
The impact of the quakes has been widespread, with power outages, water disruptions, and loss of cellphone service affecting large areas. Additionally, the quakes triggered tsunami warnings in Ishikawa and neighboring coastal prefectures, though these were later downgraded.
The Japanese public broadcaster NHK TV reported that the quakes were so intense that they were felt as far away as Tokyo. Social media footage depicted scenes of chaos and destruction, with buildings collapsing, goods strewn in supermarkets, and families desperately clinging on for safety.
In the city of Wajima, the destruction included a lacquerware company and several homes, leading to numerous casualties. Suzu city also reported significant damage, including landslides and structural collapses.
Japanese authorities have mobilized military assistance, and have confirmed that no nuclear reactors in the region were affected. Train services and the airport serving the Noto Peninsula have been suspended in the wake of the disaster.