Following a powerful earthquake that struck Japan’s Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, rescue teams are working tirelessly to find survivors as the death toll has risen to 62. The regional government reported this figure on Wednesday, adding that more than 300 people have been injured, with 20 of them in serious condition.
The aftermath of the 7.5-magnitude quake has brought additional challenges, including landslides, heavy rain, and the potential for tsunamis. The earthquake has already caused tsunamis over a meter high, resulting in widespread destruction, major fires, and damaged roads. Particularly affected is the Noto Peninsula, with towns like Wajima and Suzu experiencing significant losses, including ravaged buildings and flattened houses.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, but they face obstacles such as aftershocks and adverse weather conditions. The toll is expected to rise as rescuers continue to search through rubble amid challenging weather. The urgency of the operation is heightened by the Japan Meteorological Agency’s heavy rain warning in the area.
The government has issued warnings about the heightened risk of landslides due to heavy rain, urging over 31,800 individuals to seek shelter. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized the urgent need for rescue operations, stating, “More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster. We have received a lot of information about people in need of rescue, and there are people waiting for help.” The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing efforts to address the immediate aftermath of the earthquake and mitigate the impact of secondary hazards.
Post Your Comments