Tokyo, Japan: A powerful earthquake struck central Japan today with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6, leading to significant destruction, power outages, and a tsunami advisory along the west coast. The quake caused devastation in Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas, claiming at least one life, destroying buildings, and leaving tens of thousands of homes without power.
The earthquake triggered waves of approximately 1 meter along Japan’s west coast and neighboring South Korea, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue tsunami warnings for Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama prefectures. The initial tsunami warning, the first since the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, was downgraded but remained a significant threat.
Reports indicate scores of houses destroyed, fires breaking out, and widespread damage. Government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed dispatching army personnel for rescue operations, emphasizing that authorities are still assessing the extent of the damage.
Despite blocked road challenges, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed search and rescue teams to prioritize saving lives. The earthquake’s epicenter in the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa prefecture has experienced seismic activity for more than three years, with officials warning of possible aftershocks in the coming days.
This powerful Japan earthquake disrupted various services, with over 36,000 households losing power, train lines and high-speed rail services halting operations, and expressways closing. Japan’s nuclear plants, including the recently reopened Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, reported no irregularities, providing some relief amid concerns.
The sensitive timing of the earthquake coincided with the New Year holiday, prompting Prime Minister Kishida to warn residents to brace for more disasters. Evacuation orders flashed on television screens, urging residents in specific coastal areas to move to higher ground.
In the aftermath, images showed collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and a significant blaze engulfing structures in Wajima. The defense ministry dispatched 1,000 military personnel to assist in rescue efforts. Reports suggest numerous collapsed buildings in Wajima, with ongoing assessments of injuries and trapped individuals.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a cautionary note, emphasizing the potential for larger tsunamis and additional earthquakes in the affected areas. The situation is evolving, and residents are urged to stay informed and follow evacuation advisories for safety.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this powerful earthquake, the resilience and preparedness of affected communities become crucial in navigating the challenges posed by this natural disaster.