Massive Earthquake Strikes Western Japan
A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck western Japan, causing widespread damage and triggering tsunami alerts.
Earthquake Hits Japan
A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck western Japan on Monday afternoon, causing buildings to collapse and fires to break out. Tsunami alerts were issued in coastal areas of Japan and even reached as far as eastern Russia. Residents were ordered to evacuate the affected coastal areas.
The earthquake occurred at 4:10 p.m. local time in the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa prefecture. The Japan Meteorological Agency immediately issued a tsunami warning, and the first waves were reported hitting the coast around 10 minutes later. No immediate damage was reported in Wajima city, one of the first areas to experience the tsunami waves.
The defense ministry sent 1,000 military personnel to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. Suzu city officials reported damage to buildings and injuries, but no deaths have been reported so far.
Tsunami Warnings and Aftermath
The Japan Meteorological Agency initially issued a “major tsunami warning” for Noto, but later downgraded it to a “tsunami warning.” Tsunami warnings were later canceled, but tsunami advisories for waves up to 1 meter (3 feet) continue.
Footage from NHK showed the impact of the earthquake, with waves crashing into the coastline and houses shaking. Witnesses reported feeling panic as the ground trembled. Train services were suspended, leaving nearly 1,400 passengers stranded. Over 32,500 homes were left without power. No abnormalities were reported at nuclear plants in the area.
The earthquake was followed by several strong aftershocks, and the country’s weather agency warned of potential aftershocks and urged caution against building collapses and landslides. The defense ministry sent 1,000 military personnel to assist with the rescue and recovery efforts.
Extent of Damage and Response
While no deaths have been reported so far, several buildings were damaged and injuries were reported. Some doctors were unable to reach work due to damaged roads. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that authorities are working to assess the damage in affected areas.
Tsunami waves were reported along Japan’s western coast, reaching up to 80 centimeters in height. The South Korean Meteorological Administration also monitored sea level changes in certain areas.
Overall, the earthquake in western Japan has caused significant damage and triggered tsunami alerts. Authorities are focused on providing assistance and assessing the extent of the damage.
