Explore the aftermath of the Japan earthquake, a 7.6-magnitude disaster causing casualties and destruction. Global support extends to those affected.
In a devastating turn of events, Japan faces the aftermath of a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake that struck on Monday, leaving four people dead and dozens injured, according to Kyodo news agency. The quake, which hit at around 16:10 local time, triggered tsunami warnings, later downgraded. Thousands seek refuge in evacuation centers, with an unknown number trapped under collapsed buildings.
Snowboarder Baldwin Chia, holidaying in Hakuba Alps, described the shaking of his entire hotel room. While earthquakes are common in Japan, Chia expressed surprise at experiencing one firsthand. Briton Andy Clark in Toyama described a “scary afternoon and evening,” grabbing a sea wall for support.
Reports suggest major damage to infrastructure, with highways closed, power outages affecting over 36,000 households, and a landslide ripping apart a main expressway. The true extent of the destruction remains unclear until daylight. The quake’s epicenter witnessed the issuance of a major tsunami warning, later downgraded to a warning and advisory. Japan’s allies, including the US and the UK, offer support and condolences.
Japan, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to seismic activity. The nation, equipped with advanced tsunami warning systems, experiences constant earthquake threats. Although there are nuclear power plants in the affected regions, authorities assure no risk of radiation leakage. South Korea and Russia also issue tsunami warnings.
This earthquake recalls the tragic 2011 incident when a 9.0-magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami, claiming nearly 18,000 lives and causing a nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima power plant. As Japan assesses the aftermath, the world stands in solidarity, offering assistance and support during this challenging time.
