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Earthquakes

Powerful Earthquake Strikes Central Japan, Triggering Warnings and Disruptions

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck central Japan on Monday, triggering tsunami warnings and widespread disruptions. The quake, which hit at 4 pm, caused waves of around 1 meter along the Sea of Japan coast and led to the destruction of buildings, power outages, and travel disruptions. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) registered over a dozen earthquakes in the Japan Sea near the Ishikawa coast and surrounding prefectures. While there have been no confirmed reports of deaths or injuries, the situation remains unclear as rescue efforts are underway.

Key Takeaways:

  • The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.6 and triggered tsunami warnings for the coastal prefectures of Ishikawa, Niigata, and Toyama.
  • The quake caused waves of around 1 meter along the Sea of Japan coast, with authorities warning of larger waves to follow.
  • Several houses have been destroyed, and army units have been dispatched to help with rescue operations.
  • At least 30 collapsed buildings have been reported in Wajima, with several houses trapped under debris.
  • Over 36,000 households have lost power in Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures.
  • High-speed rail services to Ishikawa have been suspended, and telecom operators have reported phone and internet service disruptions.
  • Japanese airlines have turned back planes headed to airports in Toyama and Ishikawa.
  • One of Ishikawa's airports has been closed, and several major highways have been closed around the epicentre.

Statistics:

  • Magnitude of the earthquake: 7.6
  • Height of waves caused by the quake: around 1 meter
  • Number of earthquakes registered by JMA in the Japan Sea: over a dozen
  • Number of households without power: over 36,000
  • Number of collapsed buildings in Wajima: at least 30
  • Number of phones and internet services down: unknown
  • Number of flights turned back: unknown
  • Number of highways closed: unknown

Sources:

  • Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)
  • Government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi
  • NHK
  • Hokuriku Electric Power
  • Softbank
  • KDDI
  • ANA
  • Japan Airlines
  • Hindustan Times

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