Calay News
In a tragic turn of events, Japan’s west coast was rocked by a powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.5 on Monday afternoon, resulting in at least eight casualties, according to officials. The quake’s epicenter was located on the Noto Peninsula along the Sea of Japan, as reported by the US Geological Survey. The Japan Meteorological Agency measured the quake at a preliminary magnitude of 7.6, accompanied by over 100 aftershocks.
Blocked roads in the northern part of Noto, where the earthquake caused the most damage, are hindering rescue efforts, said Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Aerial inspections revealed widespread destruction, including severed roads, landslides, and fires. The blocked roadways make it challenging to assess the full extent of the damage.
Although an initial tsunami warning was issued, it has since been lifted. Urgent evacuation orders were issued, directing residents to move to higher ground. The affected areas experienced waves reaching up to 1.2 meters. This marks the first major tsunami warning in Japan since the devastating 2011 earthquake.
The earthquake, felt even in Tokyo, prompted Prime Minister Kishida to set up a disaster response office, emphasizing the priority of saving lives. The region recorded numerous additional earthquakes within 90 minutes, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure.
As rescue operations continue amid power outages and freezing temperatures, the international community watches with concern, and President Joe Biden has offered US assistance. The aftermath of this seismic event underscores the resilience and solidarity needed to confront the challenges brought by natural disasters.
