TOKYO, JAPAN – A strong 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on Monday, resulting in at least four reported deaths. The earthquake also triggered tsunami warnings, which were later lifted, but advisories remained in place due to aftershocks. The Japan Meteorological Agency confirmed that parts of the area experienced a tsunami.
The earthquake was centered 26 miles from Anamizu, Japan, and caused multiple injuries. A hospital in Suzu City reported that several people were transported with injuries, and a hospital in Wajima City confirmed that it was treating patients in a parking lot. In addition, a fire was reported in the city center of Wajima City, and there were reports of people trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings.
Furthermore, the U.S. Geological Survey reported dozens of aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.2 quake. There were concerns about potentially damaging aftershocks in the following hours and days. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered emergency resources to the area to address power outages, and the region also faced below freezing temperatures.
Preliminary estimates indicated that the 7.5 earthquake was the strongest in Japan since 2015. Officials warned that the region could continue to face challenges from aftershocks in the aftermath of the earthquake.
In summary, the 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Japan’s west coast resulted in at least four reported deaths and triggered tsunami advisories. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered emergency resources to address power outages, while the region also faced the potential for damaging aftershocks and below freezing temperatures.