In Japan, the aftermath of the New Year’s Day earthquake continues to unfold tragically, with the death toll surpassing 100. The magnitude 7.6 quake, which struck the west coast, has left over 200 people still unaccounted for, making it the deadliest earthquake in the country in nearly eight years.
As of Saturday, 110 deaths have been confirmed, a stark increase from 94 the previous day. This number was reported by the Ishikawa government’s website. The quake has caused extensive damage, particularly in the Hokuriku region, where over 22,000 homes have been cut off from power. Rescue operations are becoming increasingly challenging due to rain, which is complicating efforts to search through the rubble.
The situation remains dire for the over 30,000 evacuees awaiting aid. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed his deep concern over the extent of the damage and has urged officials to accelerate emergency responses. This includes restoring major roads to facilitate rescue and relief activities.
Japan’s Self-Defence Forces are intensifying their efforts, increasing their rescue staff by 400, bringing the total to 5,400. However, disrupted roads are hindering the delivery of relief supplies. In some areas, such as Ishikawa prefecture, communities remain isolated due to mudslides and road damage.
In a poignant personal account, 73-year-old freelance cameraman Masao Mochizuki shared his experience of queuing for essentials in Wajima. Despite the reopening of a supermarket, Mochizuki expressed uncertainty about the road to reconstruction, highlighting the emotional and physical toll on the quake’s victims.
Many residents, like the elderly couple Yutaka and Akiko Obayashi, have resorted to sleeping in their cars due to the destruction of their homes and discomfort in crowded evacuation centers. This decision also stems from a desire for quick mobility in case of further quakes or tsunamis.
Weather officials have issued warnings about potential heavy snowfall, which could exacerbate the situation by triggering secondary disasters like landslides. Additionally, seismic activity continues in the region, with a recent quake of intensity 5 hitting Anamizu town.