A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, resulting in at least four reported deaths. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings, which were eventually lifted, but tsunami advisories remained in place due to aftershocks. The epicenter of the earthquake was 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, and the Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that the area had experienced a tsunami.
According to reports, several people were transported with injuries to a hospital in Suzu City, and a hospital in Wajima City was treating patients in a parking lot. In addition, a fire was reported in the city center of Wajima City, and there were individuals trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings. The U.S. Geological Survey also reported dozens of aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake, prompting officials to warn of potential damaging aftershocks in the hours and days following the earthquake.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered emergency resources to the area, particularly as the region dealt with power outages and freezing temperatures. This earthquake, with a preliminary magnitude of 7.5, is reported to be the strongest in Japan since 2015.
The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.5 and was centered 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan. It generated a tsunami in parts of the area, causing casualties and significant damage. The Prime Minister of Japan has ordered emergency resources to the affected region, as there were reports of trapped individuals, injuries, and a fire related to the earthquake. The situation is further complicated by the potential for damaging aftershocks in the coming days.