Japan: Over 32,000 homes in Ishikawa prefecture face power outages after massive earthquake

After a powerful earthquake and subsequent aftershocks struck on Monday, more than 32,500 homes in Japan's Ishikawa prefecture are reportedly without power, as per information from Hokuriku Electric Power, as cited by CNN.

Tsunami warnings have been issued for the coastal areas of western Japan, prompting evacuations after a magnitude 7.5 earthquake hit the region.

Officials from Suzu city in Ishikawa prefecture revealed to CNN that buildings have sustained damage, and there are reports of injuries. Suzu police, cited by NHK via CNN, have received reports of people trapped in their homes, and efforts are underway by the police and fire department to assess the situation.

Wajima city in Ishikawa prefecture reported tsunami waves of approximately 1.2 meters, according to CNN citing NHK. These waves were observed at around 4:21 pm (local time), with no immediate reports of damage.

Other areas along Japan's western coast, including Toyama City, Kashiwazaki, Kanazawa Port, Tobishima Island, and Sado Island, have reported tsunami waves under 1 meter, as per CNN. The Japan Meteorological Agency issues different levels of warnings, with Noto city in Ishikawa prefecture under a major tsunami warning expecting waves of around 5 meters.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, certain Shinkansen bullet train services have been halted, reported CNN citing JR East, the train operator. As of 6:50 pm (local time), JR Hokuriku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines are suspended, with other lines experiencing delays.

Japan's Prime Minister's Office issued instructions in response to the situation, urging officials to provide timely and accurate information to the public regarding tsunami warnings and evacuation measures. The emphasis is on assessing damage promptly and coordinating closely with local governments while prioritizing human life.

Japan's weather agency warned of possible aftershocks continuing over the next three days to a week after the 7.5-magnitude earthquake near Ishikawa prefecture on Monday. People are advised to remain cautious due to the risk of building collapses and potential landslides in areas where intense shaking occurs. The United States Geological Survey reported at least 14 smaller aftershocks in the region following Monday's earthquake.

जापान: भीषण भूकंप के बाद इशिकावा प्रान्त में 32,000 से अधिक घरों में बिजली गुल हो गई