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| japan earthquake |
A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck Japan's Honshu island on New Year's Day, resulting in more than 20 deaths and widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure on the west coast. The Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture bore the brunt of the disaster, with buildings collapsing and roads badly damaged. Tsunami waves prompted coastal residents to flee to higher ground, sweeping cars and homes into the sea.
Despite a massive response, which saw thousands of army personnel, firefighters and police officers dispatched to the affected area, rescue teams faced challenges in reaching isolated areas due to blocked and severely damaged roads. The situation was further complicated by suspended rail services, stopped ferries and closed airports, including a damaged runway.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stressed the urgency of search and rescue efforts during an emergency meeting, saying time was a critical factor. Difficulties emerged particularly in accessing the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula, where helicopter surveys revealed numerous fires and extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Reports from local officials, including the Kyodo news agency and NHK, indicated more than 20 deaths, with serious casualties in the city of Wajima near the epicenter and many people trapped in collapsed buildings.
The United States, through President Joe Biden, expressed willingness to assist Japan, citing the strong friendship between the two countries. The Japanese government ordered more than 97,000 people into emergency shelters, many of whom returned home after the tsunami warning was lifted. However, about 33,000 homes in Ishikawa Prefecture remained without power, and suffered freezing temperatures, while areas of the northern Noto Peninsula lacked water supplies. The Imperial Household Agency canceled the New Year appearance of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, and Prime Minister Kishida postponed his visit to the Ise Shrine in recognition of the ongoing crisis.
