Wajima, Japan – A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, resulting in at least four reported fatalities. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings, which were later lifted but followed by tsunami advisories due to aftershocks.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, and the Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that a tsunami had affected parts of the area. Reports from Suzu City indicated that several individuals had been transported to the hospital with injuries, with some being treated in a parking lot due to the extent of the casualties. A fire broke out in the city center of Wajima City, and there were reports of people being trapped under collapsed buildings.
In addition to the main earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey recorded numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake. Officials warned of the potential for further damaging aftershocks in the hours and days following the initial earthquake. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered emergency resources to the affected area, especially as the region grapples with power outages and below-freezing temperatures.
Preliminary estimates indicate that this 7.5 magnitude earthquake is the strongest to have hit Japan since 2015. The region continues to face challenges as they navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster.