1/2/24 - Powerful Quakes Impact Japan

A number of lives have been lost because of an earthquake that shook Japan on New Years Day.

 Japan  — A series of powerful earthquakes that hit western Japan on New Years and at least 48 lives have been lost.

Thousands of buildings and vehicles have been damaged.

Officials warning people on Tuesday to stay away from their homes in some areas because of a continuing risk of major quakes and tsunamis. 

Aftershocks continued to shake Ishikawa prefecture and nearby areas a day after the magnitude 7.6 temblor slammed the area on Monday afternoon.

Water, power and cell phone service were still down in some areas, and residents expressed sorrow about their destroyed homes and uncertain

Although casualty numbers continued to climb gradually, the prompt public warnings, relayed on broadcasts and phones, and the quick response from the general public and officials appeared to have kept at least some of the damage under control.

The rescue efforts quickly followed from firefighters, police and the military.