At least 84 people died after a powerful earthquake struck Ishikawa Prefecture in central Japan on Monday, as rescue operations continued nearly three days after the disaster.
The cities of Wajima and Suzu, among the most severely affected by the 7.6 magnitude earthquake, recorded the highest number of confirmed deaths, with 48 and 23 victims respectively, while 79 people are still missing, the Japanese public broadcaster reported NHK, citing local authorities.
According to Kyodo News, the Japanese government plans to allocate around 4 billion yen ($28 million) to strengthen the earthquake response, while doubling the number of Self-Defense Force members engaged in rescue operations to 4,600.
The full extent of damage is not yet known due to damage to roads and communications disruptions in Ishikawa Prefecture. Concerns are also growing that the humid climate could trigger landslides in the areas hit by the earthquake.
According to Kyodo News, around 34,000 people in Ishikawa Prefecture were housed in evacuation centers as of Thursday. At least 200 buildings collapsed or partially damaged in the prefecture.
With MAP
2024-01-04 12:30:32
#death #toll #earthquake #rises