People walk through the damaged marketplace burnt by fire after earthquake in Wajima, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. A series of powerful earthquakes hit western Japan, damaging buildings, vehicles and boats, with officials warning people in some areas on Tuesday to stay away from their homes because of a risk of more strong quakes. (Kyodo News via AP)
Japan faced a catastrophic start to the new year with a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake striking the central coast, claiming at least 30 lives and causing extensive damage. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed the widespread destruction and casualties, reminiscent of the tragic events of 2011.
The quake, centered near the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture, triggered the country’s first major tsunami warning since 2011, leading to collapsed homes, fires, and widespread alerts reaching as far as eastern Russia. Rescue teams of nearly 1,000 individuals are engaged in a race against time to locate survivors amid rubble.
Access challenges due to severed transportation routes have impeded relief efforts, hindering the delivery of vital aid and personnel to the affected regions. Aerial surveys revealed scenes of devastation, including damaged roads, landslides, and engulfed buildings in flames, particularly impacting the city of Wajima, with 15 confirmed casualties.
The international community, including US President Joe Biden, has pledged support. The nation stands united in mourning the lives lost and in aiding ongoing rescue operations, emphasizing the necessity of preparedness and collaborative efforts in mitigating such devastating natural disasters.
