Rescue teams in Japan are facing challenges reaching isolated areas following a powerful earthquake on New Year’s Day, with reports of over 20 people dead. The earthquake, with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6, struck on Monday, triggering tsunami waves along Japan’s west coast. Thousands of army personnel, firefighters, and police officers have been deployed to the worst-hit area in the Noto peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture. However, damaged and blocked roads are hindering rescue efforts, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage.
Rail services, ferries, and flights into the area have been suspended, and one airport has closed due to runway damage. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphasized the urgency of search and rescue efforts during an emergency meeting, stating that reaching the northern tip of the Noto peninsula is particularly challenging. The earthquake has resulted in numerous aftershocks, with the Japan Meteorological Agency warning of the possibility of more strong shocks in the coming days.
Local authorities have reported over 20 deaths, with the hard-hit town of Wajima experiencing 15 casualties and 14 people trapped in collapsed buildings. The disaster management agency received unconfirmed reports of 19 deaths earlier on Tuesday. Evacuations were ordered for over 97,000 people, with many seeking refuge in sports halls and school gymnasiums. While tsunami warnings have been lifted, around 33,000 households remain without power in Ishikawa prefecture, and most areas in the northern Noto peninsula lack a water supply.
The earthquake comes at a sensitive time for Japan’s nuclear industry, and the authorities have confirmed no irregularities at nuclear plants along the Sea of Japan. The government, as well as global leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have expressed readiness to provide assistance to Japan during this challenging time.
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