Earthquake in Japan: All tsunami warnings lifted.

On January 2nd, the Japan Meteorological Agency lifted all tsunami warnings issued after a series of strong earthquakes shook the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture and coastal areas in central Japan on the first day of the new year. However, the agency still predicted that minor tidal fluctuations could continue throughout the day.

A house damaged by an earthquake in Nanao, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan on January 2. Photo: Kyodo

Currently, high-speed train services have resumed in some locations, after being temporarily suspended due to the earthquake. The Japan Nuclear Regulatory Authority said that some nuclear power plants in central Japan are operating normally.

Statistics show that Japan experienced 155 earthquakes of varying magnitudes, the majority of which were identified as aftershocks of the initial earthquake, which measured 7.6 magnitude. The Japan Meteorological Agency officially named this series of earthquakes of this magnitude the "2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake Series".

An area affected by an earthquake in Suzu, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan, January 2. Photo: Kyodo

According to the Ishikawa prefectural government, the earthquakes triggered tsunami waves 1-1.2 meters high in Wajima city. As of 9:30 AM on January 2nd (Vietnam time), authorities confirmed 13 deaths and dozens of injuries, while many buildings, cars, and boats were destroyed or severely damaged. Fires also destroyed more than 200 structures in Ishikawa Prefecture.

Speaking at a press conference on the morning of January 2nd, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed that "the extent of the damage is immense, with many casualties, and many houses collapsed and burned." He stated that the government had deployed an additional 1,000 soldiers to support the 8,500 Self-Defense Forces already present in the affected areas to assist in rescue efforts and disaster relief. He emphasized, "Saving lives is our top priority, and we are racing against time."

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the earthquake's epicenter was initially located about 30km east-northeast of Wajima, with a focal depth of approximately 16km. This earthquake was classified as the highest level on Japan's 7-level seismic intensity scale. The last time Japan experienced an earthquake of this magnitude was in Hokkaido in late 2018.

Sharing his condolences for the damage caused by the recent series of earthquakes in Japan, US President Joe Biden declared that the United States is ready to provide all necessary assistance to its close ally. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his sympathy to the Government and people of Japan.

VNA

Source