Kanazawa, Japan – A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck western Japan on New Year’s Day, leading to the deaths of at least six people and causing numerous injuries. Rescue efforts are underway, as authorities rush to locate survivors trapped in the aftermath of the powerful quake. The earthquake originated about 26 miles northeast of Anamizu in Ishikawa prefecture, along the Noto Peninsula, resulting in significant damage to buildings and roads and leaving 45,000 homes without power.
Tsunami warnings were initially issued for areas as far as eastern Russia, although they were later downgraded to advisories and eventually canceled. Japan’s Meteorological Agency recorded over 140 aftershocks following the quake, with concerns that strong tremors may persist in the coming days. As a precaution, more than 97,000 people were evacuated from their homes.
According to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, emergency personnel are working tirelessly to rescue those trapped in collapsed buildings while also assessing the overall impact of the earthquake. Authorities confirmed six fatalities in Ishikawa, along with over 30 reported injuries in four other prefectures. Reports from local media suggest more deaths have occurred.
The earthquake, which caused strong tremors in central Tokyo, marked the first major tsunami warning issued by Japan since the devastating 2011 earthquake that struck Tohoku. The earliest waves resulting from the earthquake measured about four feet along the Noto Peninsula, as well as in Ishikawa and Niigata, with some reaching the Hokkaido Prefecture. In response to the aftermath of the earthquake, Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Prime Minister Kishida postponed scheduled events.
As Japan braces for potential further aftershocks, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed support for the country, stating that the United States stands ready to provide assistance as needed. Strong aftershocks ranging from 4.0 to 5.0 magnitude were reported in central Japan, with the country’s nuclear authority confirming no risk of radioactive leaks from affected nuclear power plants.
Japan, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly susceptible to earthquakes due to the convergence of tectonic plates, leading the country to develop a sophisticated tsunami warning system. As rescue efforts continue and the impact of the earthquake is assessed, the Japanese government, along with assistance from other nations, remains focused on addressing the aftermath and ensuring the safety of the affected population.