A big earthquake hit Japan on Monday, causing a lot of damage and putting many lives at risk. The quake had a magnitude of 7.5 and struck Ishikawa prefecture on the main island of Honshu. This led to tsunami waves, building collapses, fires, and damaged roads.
As daylight came, the Noto Peninsula revealed the extent of the destruction with buildings still on fire, houses destroyed, and fishing boats damaged. Sadly, the death toll has already reached at least 20 people, and more casualties are expected. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed the urgency to search and rescue victims, calling it a race against time.
The damage includes a major fire in Wajima, where a seven-storey building collapsed. Many households are without power, and cities are facing water shortages. The US Geological Survey reported a magnitude of 7.5, while Japan’s meteorological agency measured it at 7.6. Over 150 aftershocks were felt in the region.
Tsunami warnings were issued, but fortunately, larger waves didn’t materialize. Japan has now lifted all tsunami warnings. Social media shared images of the violent shaking, collapsed houses, and frightened people seeking refuge in shops and train stations.
Rescue efforts are underway, with firefighters bravely entering collapsed buildings in search of survivors. Landslides and road damage have made rescue operations challenging. Thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate, and military personnel are being deployed to assist. Bullet trains and major highways are suspended, causing transportation disruptions.
This earthquake brings back memories of the devastating 2011 quake and tsunami in Japan, which resulted in a significant loss of life and the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Fortunately, there are no reported abnormalities at nuclear plants this time. The international community, including the US and European leaders, has offered assistance and solidarity to Japan during this challenging time.
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