7.5 magnitude earthquake hits Japan, death toll reaches126

In the aftermath of a devastating 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck the Ishikawa region of Japan’s main Honshu island on New Year’s Day, the focus has shifted from rescue efforts to the grim task of recovering bodies and cleaning up.

With at least 126 confirmed dead and 210 still missing, the death toll is expected to rise as rescuers battle bad weather and impassable roads marred by landslides.

The enormity of the disaster is evident in the challenges faced by thousands of rescue workers, compounded by adverse weather conditions and over 1,000 landslides hindering their progress. Despite the valiant efforts, hope for finding more survivors diminishes each day.

In the city of Wajima on the Noto peninsula, where two elderly women were miraculously rescued on Thursday, the overall atmosphere remains somber.

The cleanup operation reveals the stark reality of destruction, with Suzu bearing witness to homes reduced to ruins and the ominous barking of a rescue dog signaling a grim discovery.

The coastal community of Shiromaru, devastated by tsunami waves, paints a picture of chaos with fishing boats sunk or tossed onto the shore. Residents recount the horror of the tsunami surging through the streets, leaving destruction in its wake, while public support remains scarce.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed condolences for the 126 confirmed fatalities, emphasizing urgent efforts to repair roads and assist those cut off from essential services.

International solidarity pours in, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offering deep sympathy, echoing sentiments from the United States and China.

The impact on daily life is profound, with over 23,200 households without electricity and more than 66,400 lacking running water in Ishikawa.

Hospitals and facilities for vulnerable populations face disruptions, and the governor warns of a prolonged water outage due to extensive pipe damage.

As Japan grapples with this disaster, it serves as a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability to seismic events.

While strict building codes have mitigated damage in many cases, the aftermath of the 2011 monster quake still looms large, underscoring the need for continuous preparedness and swift response in the face of natural calamities.