Japan earthquake: Nearly 250 missing as hope for survivors fades

In the aftermath of a devastating 7. 6 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan's remote Noto peninsula on New Year's Day, rescue teams are in a race against time to locate 242 missing individuals. The critical 72-hour window to find survivors has unfortunately closed, and the death toll has risen to 92.

The Japanese Self-Defense Forces have doubled their efforts, increasing the number of troops involved in the rescue and relief operations to 4,600. It is believed that many individuals are trapped under the rubble of their collapsed homes, particularly in the towns of Suzu and Wajima. These towns are primarily composed of wooden structures, which were not designed to withstand the powerful earthquakes that frequently occur in the country.

The situation remains dire, with tens of thousands of residents still without access to power and water. Many are isolated due to landslides and blocked roads, making it difficult for help to reach them. Despite these challenges, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida remains resolute, stating, 'We will not give up. ' He has urged rescue and relief workers to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to reach the affected communities. However, access to the most devastated areas remains a significant challenge due to landslides and rockfalls triggered by the rain and aftershocks. The earthquake also triggered a small tsunami, flooding a significant amount of land. The Japanese government has pledged to spend 4. 74 billion yen to assist the victims. The Self-Defense Forces are working tirelessly, distributing food, drinking water, and toiletries, and clearing mud and debris from the roads. The BBC reported extensive destruction in Wajima, where many homes and vehicles were crushed under crumbling concrete, and many of the town's traditional wooden homes had collapsed. The town, which once had a population of 23,000, now resembles a ghost town as most residents heeded early evacuation warnings when tsunamis were forecast.