A powerful earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale has struck Ishikawa in central Japan, prompting a tsunami alert and urging residents to evacuate and be prepared for potential aftershocks. NHK reported on Monday that a tsunami measuring approximately 1 meter (3.3 feet) in height hit certain areas of the Sea of Japan's west coast. It is anticipated that a bigger wave will follow. Disturbing footage capturing the earthquake is being widely shared on 'X' (Twitter)
Video: A Japanese driver stopped their car during today's earthquake and observed river water swaying back and forth.#Tsunami #japan #earthquake #NewYear pic.twitter.com/U3c2g9I48o — Mobin (@mobin_911) January 1, 2024
Reports indicate that the Japan Meteorological Agency has recently issued tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama. Additionally, Russia has also issued tsunami warnings for its far eastern cities of Vladivostok and Nakhodka.
NHK has urged all residents to evacuate to higher ground immediately following the earthquake in the Noto region of Ishikawa prefecture at around 4:10pm local time (07:10 GMT).
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in comments aired on NHK, that the authorities are still evaluating the damage, and residents need to prepare for any more tremors.
"Residents need to stay on alert for further possible quakes and I urge people in areas where tsunamis are expected to evacuate as soon as possible," Kishida said, as quoted by Reuters
Top Updates
- The recent series of powerful earthquakes in western Japan have tragically resulted in at least 55 casualties.
- Around 200 tremors have been recorded since the initial quake on Monday, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency.
- Aftershocks persist in Ishikawa after the 7.6 quake. Japan Meteorological Agency caution that additional strong aftershocks could occur in the coming days, underscoring the ongoing seismic activity in the region.
- The tsunami warnings and advisories issued on Monday in Japan have been lifted by the Met Office. Despite this, officials note the potential for minor tidal level changes.
- Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that the earthquakes resulted in significant damage and numerous casualties.
- Rescue teams are facing challenges in freezing temperatures as they work to reach coastal regions where many individuals are feared trapped beneath potentially thousands of collapsed homes.
- In Suzu, a town with just over 5,000 households near the epicenter, Mayor Masuhiro Izumiya reported that 90% of houses might have been destroyed, describing the situation as catastrophic.
- South Korea has protested Japan's tsunami advisory, objecting to a map that showed islands claimed by both countries after the New Year's Day earthquake.
- Approximately 33,000 households in Ishikawa, Niigata, and Fukui prefectures in Japan are reported to be without power following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central regions, according to NHK. The broadcaster also mentioned injuries in these areas, while officials are engaged in rescue operations to assess the extent of damage and casualties. The full scope of the aftermath is yet to be determined.
- In the aftermath of the earthquake, a blaze in central Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is reported to have destroyed more than 100 buildings, according to local media. The local fire department indicated that numerous structures, particularly wooden shops along the renowned Asaichi Street in the city center, are presumed to have been consumed by the fire, as stated by NHK.
Indian Embassy expressed Sympathy
The Embassy of India in Japan and the Republic of Marshall Islands conveyed deep sadness on Tuesday, expressing sympathy for the damage caused by the earthquake and tsunami in Ishikawa and neighboring prefectures of Japan.
In a post on X, the Embassy conveyed, "Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected. India stands in solidarity with Japan and its people in these challenging times."
The Indian Embassy has set up an emergency control room to offer assistance and support. The 7.6 magnitude quake prompted evacuation alerts in coastal regions, leading the embassy to share contact details via their X handle for the benefit of Indian nationals requiring help.
America offers Help
President Joe Biden expressed the United States' readiness to offer any essential assistance to Japan in the aftermath of the earthquake. Highlighting the strong friendship between the two close allies, he conveyed thoughts of support for the Japanese people during this challenging period.
(With inputs from agencies)
Photo: X
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
