Japan Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 50, Desperate Rescue Efforts Underway

2024-01-03 00:21:44

The death toll in Japan’s New Year’s Day earthquake has risen to 50, with desperate rescue efforts underway to save those trapped among the collapsed buildings. The 7.6-magnitude earthquake caused extensive damage, with roads and houses collapsing. About 90 percent of the 5,000 houses in the coastal city of Susu were destroyed, and more deaths occurred in Suzu and Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture.

The earthquake occurred at sea near Ishikawa Province on Honshu Island, with over two hundred subsequent aftershocks. Following a tsunami warning, people evacuated to higher ground, and rail and air traffic were disrupted in many areas. Approximately 500 passengers were stranded at Notos airport, where services have been suspended due to a damaged runway. Power outages have also worsened the situation.