Japan began the year with a strong earthquake that caused significant changes in the geography of the Noto Peninsula. The region shifted by around 250 meters due to the earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale. Images shared on
Epicenter near the city of Anamizu
The earthquake's epicenter is 42 km from the city of Anamizu in Ishikawa Prefecture, prompting authorities to issue a warning about the risk of a tsunami with waves up to five meters high. Given the depth of 10 km at which the quake occurred, the risk of damage was increased.
“During a field survey along the northwest coast of the Noto Peninsula, we found evidence of coseismic coastal uplift associated with the Noto Peninsula earthquake at ten locations, from Kaiso to Akasaki. south of Kaiso to Akasaki.”
The statement comes from the Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo, which published detailed research on the event.
More than 20 aftershocks recorded
In addition to the mainshock, more than 20 mediumsized aftershocks were identified, including one with a magnitude of 6.2. Although these aftershocks are less intense, they can worsen damage to structures already weakened by the main earthquake and increase the risk to residents in the area.
As a result of the catastrophic New Year's quake, more than 200 people died and more than 100 are still missing. The destruction also includes damage to buildings, fires and the collapse of infrastructure on the Noto Peninsula on the main island of Honshu.
New earthquake recorded
This Tuesday, a new earthquake of magnitude 6.0 shook the central region of Japan and hit the coast of the Sea of Japan. This increased the tremors in the same part of the country that had already been hit by the previous earthquake.
With nearly 30,000 people still housed in government accommodation and lacking adequate food, water and heating, the situation is even more critical. In addition, almost 60,000 households are without water and 15,600 without electricity. The situation has been aggravated by more than a thousand landslides caused by recent rains.
Prime Minister mobilizes relief efforts
This Tuesday, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed his Cabinet to “make efforts to overcome the isolation of communities and continue rescue operations.” Kishida also ordered evacuation to other regions far from the earthquake zone.
Japan, one of the most seismically active countries in the world, constantly struggles with earthquake damage. However, the scale and impact of the New Year's quake demonstrate the colossal force of nature, against which even a prepared country can be defenseless.
Despite the devastation and challenges, Japan has demonstrated unique resilience throughout its history to recover from these disasters and will undoubtedly demonstrate strength and determination once again in the face of this tragedy.