Japan Records Over 100 Aftershocks After Major Earthquake Kills 13

A series of over 100 aftershocks has been registered across western Japan since the magnitude 7.6 earthquake on New Year's Day. The initial tremor, centred in Ishikawa prefecture, resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and triggered widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, landslides, and a large fire in Wajima city.

Japanese Meteorological Agency officials have cautioned that aftershocks could persist for a week, with some potentially matching the intensity of the initial quake. The ongoing seismic activity poses a significant risk of further building collapses and landslides in affected areas. Residents have been urged to stay away from coastal regions due to the lingering threat of tsunamis, with waves of over a metre reported in Ishikawa.

Emergency services are contending with severe disruptions to infrastructure, including widespread power outages and damaged roads, impeding rescue efforts. Thousands of households remain without electricity and water, particularly in the Noto Peninsula. The Japan Ground Self-Defence Force has been mobilised to assist with search and rescue operations, focusing on retrieving individuals believed to be trapped under rubble.