Japan earthquake update: 48 dead after powerful earthquakes strike Japan’s western coast

A series of powerful earthquakes that hit western Japan on New Year's Day has killed at least 48 people, according to reports, with officials warning people in some areas to stay away from their homes due to risk of more strong quakes. A 7.6 tremor struck Ishikawa prefecture on Monday afternoon causing widespread damage and destruction. Officials confirmed 48 deaths and reported 16 serious injuries, with extensive damage to homes, Local reports suggest tens of thousands of homes were destroyed.

Government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said 17 people were seriously injured and gave a slightly lower death tally, while saying he was aware of the prefecture’s tally. Meanwhile, water, power and mobile phone service were still down in some areas, and residents expressed sorrow about their destroyed homes and uncertain futures.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Japan's military has dispatched 1,000 soldiers to the disaster zones to join rescue efforts. He said: “Saving lives is our priority and we are fighting a battle against time. It is critical that people trapped in homes get rescued immediately.” A quake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.6 shook the area as he was speaking.

Amid the devastation, reports highlighted collapsed houses, flattened wooden structures, overturned cars, and partially sunken ships. While a major tsunami warning was issued initially, it was later downgraded, and all warnings were lifted. Nevertheless, the Japan Meteorological Agency cautioned that additional significant quakes could occur in the coming days.

People who were evacuated took shelter in auditoriums, schools, and community centers, while transportation services, including bullet trains, were temporarily halted. Closed roads, burst water pipes, and disrupted mobile phone service added to the challenges. Concerns about rain further heightened worries over compromised buildings and infrastructure in the region, known for its cultural heritage sites and traditional crafts.

President Joe Biden also said the country was ready to provide necessary assistance to Japan. Japan, situated along the seismically active Ring of Fire, experienced about a hundred aftershocks within the last day, underscoring the ongoing seismic challenges faced by the nation.