TOKYO – A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, resulting in the reported deaths of at least four people. The earthquake caused buildings to collapse and knocked out power in the affected areas.
The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings, although they were later lifted. However, tsunami advisories continued due to aftershocks. The earthquake was centered 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, and the Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that parts of the area experienced a tsunami on Monday.
Several people were transported with injuries to a hospital in Suzu City, while another hospital in Wajima City was treating patients in a parking lot, according to reports. A fire was also reported in the city center of Wajima City, and there were reportedly people trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings.
In addition to the magnitude 7.5 earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey reported dozens of aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake. Officials warned that the region could be prone to damaging aftershocks in the hours and days following Monday’s earthquake.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered emergency resources to the area as the region deals with power outages. Adding to concerns, temperatures are below freezing in much of the area. The earthquake was Japan’s strongest since 2015.
The aftermath of the earthquake continues to unfold, and emergency response efforts are ongoing to provide aid and support to those affected by the disaster.