Title: Devastation in Japan following a powerful earthquake
Introduction :
Japan was hit by a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake, followed by several aftershocks, which caused scenes of devastation along its west coast. Rescuers are currently mobilized to save residents trapped under the rubble. Fires broke out and tsunami warnings were issued as far as eastern Russia. The provisional toll shows at least 30 deaths. In this article we present the latest information on this tragedy.
Considerable damage:
The earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture on Monday afternoon, causing collapsed buildings, fires and tsunami warnings. Although all tsunami warnings were lifted the following day, access to the northern part of the Noto Peninsula remains limited due to a destroyed road. Helicopters flew over the area and reported damaged roads, landslides and large fires.
Critical situation in Wajima:
The town of Wajima, where more than 27,000 people live, is among the worst affected areas. According to city officials, 15 people lost their lives. Fires ravaged more than 100 shops and homes, and tsunami waves of around 1.2 meters also hit the city. Aerial images show destroyed streets, burning buildings and clouds of smoke rising into the sky.
Rescue operations in progress:
Emergency teams made up of members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, police officers and firefighters are currently being mobilized to rescue the trapped people. The authorities are putting in place all available means of transport to deliver relief supplies, particularly by land, air and sea. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stressed the importance of rescuing people trapped under the rubble as soon as possible.
Consequences of the earthquake:
Although the extent of the damage is still being assessed, it should be noted that this earthquake is far from equaling the magnitude 9.0 disaster which struck Japan in 2011 and which caused a tsunami as well as an accident nuclear power plant at Fukushima. Nevertheless, the authorities continue to take measures to address the situation, including providing emergency shelter to displaced people.
Conclusion :
Japan is facing a new natural disaster with this 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Rescue operations are underway to find and rescue people trapped under the rubble. Priority is given to their rapid rescue. Authorities are also doing everything they can to assess the damage and provide assistance to those who need it. Let us remain attentive to developments in this tragedy and pray for the victims and their families.