Wajima City, Japan – A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan, resulting in at least four reported fatalities. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings, which were later lifted, but advisories remained due to aftershocks.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Reports confirmed that parts of the area experienced a tsunami following the earthquake. Several people were transported with injuries to hospitals in Suzu City and Wajima City, where some patients were even being treated in a parking lot.
In addition to the immediate impact of the earthquake, a fire broke out in the city center of Wajima City, and there were reports of people trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings. The U.S. Geological Survey also reported numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake, warning of the potential for further damaging aftershocks.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida mobilized emergency resources to the affected area, where power outages added an extra layer of difficulty to the situation. Additionally, below-freezing temperatures in much of the area raised concerns about the well-being of those affected by the earthquake.
Preliminary estimates indicated that the 7.5 earthquake was the strongest to hit Japan since 2015. The region remained on alert for possible aftershocks in the hours and days following the initial earthquake.
In summary, the magnitude 7.5 earthquake in Japan’s west coast resulted in at least four reported deaths, triggering tsunami warnings and aftershocks. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered emergency resources to the affected area, where power outages and freezing temperatures have added to the challenges faced by residents. The earthquake was the strongest to hit Japan since 2015, and the region remained on alert for potential aftershocks.