Wajima City, Japan – A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, claiming the lives of at least four people and triggering tsunami warnings that have since been lifted. However, aftershocks continue to pose a threat, prompting ongoing tsunami advisories in the region.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The agency confirmed that a tsunami had indeed occurred in certain parts of the area on Monday.
Reports from Suzu City revealed that several individuals have been transported to the hospital with injuries. Meanwhile, Wajima City saw a fire break out in its city center as a direct result of the earthquake, with individuals reportedly trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings.
In addition to the initial earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey recorded numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake. Authorities warned of possible damaging aftershocks in the hours and days following Monday’s earthquake.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered the deployment of emergency resources to the affected area, which is currently grappling with power outages. The situation is further exacerbated by freezing temperatures, raising concerns for the well-being of residents in the region.
Preliminary estimates indicate that the 7.5 earthquake is the strongest to hit Japan since 2015. The region remains on high alert for potential aftershocks as recovery efforts and emergency response measures are underway.