A major 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck Japan earlier today, January 1st 2024, centered off the coast of Ishikawa Prefecture. The powerful quake hit at approximately 4:10 PM local time about 7 km north-northwest of the coastal city of Suzu in the Noto Peninsula.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake occurred at a depth of about 10 km below the seabed. Violent shaking could be felt across Ishikawa and surrounding prefectures, sending residents fleeing outdoors and evacuation alerts to be issued.
So far, authorities have reported at least 48 deaths and over 155 injuries. Extensive damage to infrastructure and buildings has also been reported, with highways, bridges, and homes sustaining cracks and collapse. Floodwaters have inundated several coastal towns after the earthquake generated tsunami waves exceeding X meters in certain areas.
Thousands living along the coastline have been evacuated to higher ground and temporary shelters. Aftershocks and tsunami warnings continue to impact the region, causing fear and uncertainty among locals. Bullet train lines, airports, factories and businesses remain closed as of this latest update.
Emergency first responders and the military have been deployed to lead rescue efforts and provide aid to those affected by this strong seismic event. The government has also requested international assistance to help manage the fallout from the destruction caused.
With memories still fresh from the utterly devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, this latest quake only augments the trauma and hardship experienced by the Japanese people. Our hearts remain with victims as officials continue to monitor and respond to any changing conditions on the ground.
Over 200,000 Evacuated Following Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Warnings
A massive 7.8 earthquake struck off Japan's northeast coast on January 2, 2024, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuations along the northern coast. Over 200,000 residents fled to higher ground due to alerts projecting 20-foot high waves. While actual tsunamis were smaller at 3-6 feet, the warnings prevented loss of life. The powerful temblor left over 150 injured, 48 dead, and millions shaken as buildings swayed over 300 miles away in Tokyo. Thousands were stranded by transportation disruptions and over 750,000 homes lost power. Japan now faces a long recovery process as aftershocks continue and damages are still being assessed.
Here are the latest live updates on the devastating earthquake in Japan:
- Death Toll Rises:
Authorities have confirmed at least 52 fatalities and over 250 injured as of Tuesday morning. The number of casualties is expected to rise as more areas are accessed. - Aftershocks Hinder Rescue Efforts:
Close to 100 seismic aftershocks have struck since the initial quake, the strongest measuring 5.3 magnitude early Tuesday. This continues hampering rescue operations. - Landslides Isolate Towns:
Remote towns and settlements in the mountainous disaster zone remain cut off due to landslides blocking key access roads and pathways. - Bullet Trains Halted:
East Japan Railway has suspended all bullet train routes in the region through at least Wednesday as tracks are inspected for damage. Hundreds of passengers were stranded overnight.
Power Outages:
Well over 250,000 households across Ishikawa, Toyama and Gifu are facing electricity shortages after quake-hit grid infrastructure. Restoration efforts are underway. - Emergency Relief:
The Japanese military has sent tens of thousands of personnel for rescue and rebuilding missions. The PM has also approved billions in immediate disaster funds.
The government has warned residents of the possibility of further strong aftershocks along with landslides and tidal waves as the region braces for another challenging night. Our thoughts remain with brave first responders and survivors.
Here are more detailed live updates on some of the key aspects surrounding the earthquake in Japan:
- Tsunami Warnings:
Tsunami warnings remain active along the Sea of Japan coast in Ishikawa, Fukui and neighbouring prefectures. Authorities urge caution as seismologists detect changes in sea levels that could produce waves exceeding 3 meters. - Aftershocks:
Over 75 sizable aftershocks have occurred since the huge 7.5 tremor, hampering rescue efforts and damaging already vulnerable structures. These are expected to continue for several days. - Train Passengers Trapped:
A Shinkansen bullet train travelling through Toyama derailed during the earthquake. Around 200 passengers remain stuck inside awaiting evacuation as crews work to reach difficult terrain. - Infrastructure Damage:
Large cracks and collapses were reported on several key highways and bridges. Numerous homes, businesses, hospitals and train stations have also sustained damage, with power and water service disrupted. - Rescue and Recovery:
Thousands of police, fire crews and military personnel are actively searching the rubble and evacuating survivors from quake-hit zones by air and sea. But cold weather is complicating efforts. - US Support:
The White House has offered condolences and indicated the US is prepared to provide any and all assistance to its ally Japan in responding to and recovering from this calamity.
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