Tokyo, January 1, 2024: On January 1st, at midday Indian Standard Time, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture. The tremor was followed by aftershocks in various locations.
Authorities issued a tsunami warning for the Japanese prefectures of Niigata, Toyama, and Ishikawa. Residents in coastal areas were instructed to evacuate to higher ground immediately.
Approximately ten minutes after the earthquake, tsunami waves began hitting coastal areas. Reports claim a 1.2-meter wave struck the coast of Wajima City, with warnings of potential five-meter waves in other areas.
Significant damage has been reported, including collapsed roads and numerous destroyed homes. Power outages affected roughly 33,500 houses.
Casualties are currently unknown as authorities conduct search and rescue operations.
