Japan, a nation accustomed to natural disasters, faced another tragedy when a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck its central region.

The seismic event caused widespread damage, including collapsed buildings, fires, and a tsunami threat, resulting in at least two deaths and numerous injuries.

The quake, centered near Suzu City, occurred at 4 pm local time, leaving a trail of destruction, panic, and fear. Wajima City's Fire Department in Ishikawa received over 30 reports of collapsed buildings, while social media and TV broadcasts depicted significant damage in Suzu and other areas. Crumbled structures, cracked roads, and a large fire in Wajima were the immediate aftermath as the nation grappled with the disaster.

Aftermath and rescue operations

Following the quake, more than 60 aftershocks, ranging from 3 to 6.1 magnitudes, further threatened the region. These tremors posed an ongoing risk of building collapses and heightened the urgency of rescue operations.

Rescuers combed through debris, searching for trapped residents, with initial reports suggesting at least six people were trapped. Japan's military was quickly mobilized, aiding in the massive rescue and evacuation operation that affected 51,000 residents.

Tsunami warnings were issued, forecasting waves up to 5 meters. However, these were later downgraded to regular warnings, with the first waves hitting Wajima port at 4:21 pm local time. The government set up a special emergency center to disseminate quake and tsunami information.

Regional and international impact

The quake's effects were not confined to Japan alone. Tsunami threats extended to Russia's Sakhalin island and North Korea's east coast. South Korea's Gangwon province also anticipated sea level rises due to the quake.

Back in Japan, approximately 33,500 households on Honshu's western coast lost power. However, there was a sigh of relief as Japan's nuclear power plants along the coast, including the Shika nuclear power plant in Ishikawa, reported no abnormalities.

Japan's meteorological agency noted that this was the largest earthquake ever recorded in the Noto Peninsula, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the disaster.

Do not wander away from the safe place. There is a very high risk of buildings collapsing and other damages caused by the tremors. History tells us that similar scale earthquakes can reoccur within two to three days.

Historical context and preparedness

Japan, a country well-versed in disaster preparedness, was still caught off-guard by the earthquake's magnitude. The quake disrupted daily life, causing damage to department stores, flooding in a train station, and affecting historical temples.

The two individuals in Ishikawa who died from cardiac arrests linked to the quake remind us of the human toll such disasters take. Japan's stringent construction regulations and disaster preparedness measures, often cited as exemplary, were put to the test in this calamity.

In the aftermath, officials highlighted the ongoing risks, urging citizens to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks and secondary disasters.

We realize your home, your belongings are all precious to you, but your lives are important above everything else. Run to the highest ground possible.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

In the face of such disasters, there are crucial lessons to be learned:

1. Preparedness is key: Natural disasters can strike with little warning, even in a country as prepared as Japan. It's vital to have an emergency plan in place.

2. Evacuation procedures: Understanding and following evacuation procedures can save lives. As one official stated, "Every minute counts. Please evacuate to a safe area immediately."

3. Community support: In times of crisis, the community's support and the swift response of emergency services are invaluable.

4. Building resilience: Reinforcing buildings and infrastructure against natural disasters can mitigate damage and save lives.

However, it's important to remember that, despite all precautions, natural disasters can strike anyone, anywhere. Victim blaming is never appropriate in these situations.

Why this story matters

This story is significant not only for its immediate impact but also for what it represents. It's a stark reminder of our vulnerability to natural forces and the importance of continuous disaster response and preparedness improvement. The lessons learned from this tragedy can help communities better prepare for and respond to similar events worldwide. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of international cooperation in disaster management and relief efforts.

• A 7.6-magnitude earthquake hit central Japan, causing widespread damage and prompting a massive rescue operation.
• Over 60 aftershocks followed, with continuous risks of building collapses and tremors.
• Tsunami warnings were issued, affecting not only Japan but also neighboring regions.
• The event tested Japan's disaster preparedness measures and highlighted the importance of community support and resilience.