In a turn of events, Japan is grappling with the aftermath of a New Year’s Day earthquake that has claimed the lives of at least 73 people, with fears of more casualties looming large. The quake, centered on the Noto Peninsula in central Japan, unleashed chaos, triggering tsunami alerts, fires, and leaving buildings in ruins.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized the severity of the situation, revealing that “70 people had been rescued overnight,” but the number of missing individuals remains unknown. The eerie echoes of the 2011 Tōhoku disaster linger as the nation confronts the destruction, vividly portrayed by collapsed buildings and smoldering remnants of once vibrant marketplaces.
Hayashi acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Infrastructure damage remains a major challenge,” with roads blocked and rescue efforts hampered by the extensive destruction. The scale of devastation in the town of Suzu is staggering, with Mayor Masuhiro Izumiya reporting that nearly 90% of houses are either completely or almost entirely collapsed.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, recognizing the hindrance caused by road damage, announced plans to escalate military and rescue personnel involvement in relief operations. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, over 30,000 people find shelter in precarious conditions, lacking essential resources. #earthquake