A potent earthquake struck central Japan on January 1, resulting in at least one fatality, structural damage, power outages, and prompting coastal residents to seek higher ground. The earthquake, measuring a preliminary magnitude of 7.6, generated waves of approximately one meter along Japan’s west coast and South Korea. The Japan Meteorological Agency initially issued a major tsunami warning, the first since the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami, for Ishikawa prefecture. This warning was later downgraded and ultimately reduced to an advisory. The quake, the strongest in the region in over four decades, led to building collapses, fires, and the deployment of military personnel for rescue efforts.
Tragically, an elderly man lost his life when a building collapsed in Shika Town in Ishikawa. Local media documented the destruction, including a building collapsing in Suzu, a significant crack in a road in Wajima, and footage of the Keta Grand Shrine rocking during the quake. In Kanazawa, a popular tourist destination, images depicted a shattered stone gate at the entrance of a shrine. The earthquake disrupted traditional New Year’s visits to shrines and temples, causing anxiety among worshippers. The quake also affected Nagano prefecture, where snow from electric wires and roofs fell, causing panic.
Millions were traditionally expected to visit shrines and temples on January 1 to usher in the new year. Evacuation orders were issued for over 97,000 people in nine prefectures along the western coast of Honshu. Evacuees sought refuge in sports halls and school gymnasiums. The Japanese government warned of the potential for additional strong quakes in the region in the coming days. Both Russia and North Korea issued tsunami warnings for specific areas. The earthquake serves as a stark reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the need for vigilant preparedness and response measures.
