
Japanese rescue teams are urgently searching for survivors following a powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck Ishikawa prefecture on January 1, claiming the lives of at least 62 people. The quake triggered tsunami waves exceeding one meter, leading to major fires and severe road damage. The Noto Peninsula, notably Wajima and Suzu, suffered extensive destruction, with hundreds of buildings in ruins, as revealed by before-and-after satellite images.

As of Wednesday, the regional government confirmed 62 fatalities and over 300 injuries, 20 of which are serious. The toll is expected to rise as rescue operations contend with aftershocks and challenging weather conditions. More than 31,800 individuals sought refuge in shelters, emphasizing the urgency of ongoing rescue efforts.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stressed the race against time during an emergency meeting, urging prioritization of saving lives. Despite intensified efforts by local authorities, police, firefighters, and additional resources, the situation remains critical. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a heavy rain warning, heightening concerns about landslides.
