Rescue efforts in Japan are in a race against time following a 7.5-magnitude earthquake on New Year's Day in Ishikawa prefecture. The quake triggered tsunami waves, toppled buildings, ignited fires, and severed roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly the port of Wajima, bore the brunt, with smoldering structures, flattened houses, and sunken fishing boats. Initial reports suggest six deaths, but the toll is expected to rise, with Kyodo news agency indicating 24 casualties.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida acknowledged the extensive damage during a disaster response meeting, emphasizing the urgency of rescue operations. Aerial footage revealed Wajima's devastation, featuring a seven-story building collapse and widespread fires. Over 45,000 households lost power in freezing temperatures, and numerous cities faced water shortages.

As rescuers battled aftershocks and raced against the clock, the destruction's magnitude became apparent in the daylight. The scenes depicted a region grappling with the aftermath of a major natural disaster, highlighting the challenges posed by collapsed infrastructure, fires, and the need for urgent humanitarian assistance. The situation remains fluid as authorities work tirelessly to locate and aid survivors amidst the widespread devastation.

Rescue efforts in Japan are in a race against time following a 7.5-magnitude earthquake on New Year's Day in Ishikawa prefecture. The quake triggered tsunami waves, toppled buildings, ignited fires, and severed roads. The Noto Peninsula, particularly the port of Wajima, bore the brunt, with smoldering structures, flattened houses, and sunken fishing boats. Initial reports suggest six deaths, but the toll is expected to rise, with Kyodo news agency indicating 24 casualties.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida acknowledged the extensive damage during a disaster response meeting, emphasizing the urgency of rescue operations. Aerial footage revealed Wajima's devastation, featuring a seven-story building collapse and widespread fires. Over 45,000 households lost power in freezing temperatures, and numerous cities faced water shortages.

As rescuers battled aftershocks and raced against the clock, the destruction's magnitude became apparent in the daylight. The scenes depicted a region grappling with the aftermath of a major natural disaster, highlighting the challenges posed by collapsed infrastructure, fires, and the need for urgent humanitarian assistance. The situation remains fluid as authorities work tirelessly to locate and aid survivors amidst the widespread devastation.