Wajima City, Japan – A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, leading to reports of at least four fatalities. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings that were later lifted, but aftershocks continued to pose a threat, leading to ongoing tsunami advisories.
The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that the earthquake was centered 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, and parts of the area experienced a tsunami. Hospitals in Suzu City and Wajima City reported treating multiple patients for injuries, with some even being treated in a parking lot. Additionally, a fire broke out in the city center of Wajima City, and there were reports of people being trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings.
In the aftermath of the magnitude 7.5 earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey recorded numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake. Officials warned that the region could continue to experience damaging aftershocks in the coming hours and days. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida swiftly ordered emergency resources to the affected area, where power outages and freezing temperatures added to the challenges of the situation.
Preliminary estimates indicate that this earthquake was the strongest to hit Japan since 2015. The region is now focused on responding to the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, providing aid to the injured, and addressing the ongoing threats posed by aftershocks and other related hazards.
In summary, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake on the west coast of Japan has reportedly caused at least four deaths and triggered tsunami warnings. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered emergency resources to the affected area, and ongoing aftershocks pose further risks in the region.