Japan earthquake: Death toll exceeds 100, hundreds missing
Japan faces the aftermath of its deadliest earthquake in nearly eight years, with the death toll surpassing 100 since New Year's Day. Authorities report more than 200 people still missing.
The 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck Japan's west coast, crippling infrastructure and leaving approximately 23,000 homes in the Hokuriku region without power.
Rescue teams, entering their sixth day of operations, continue to scour the debris of collapsed buildings. The disaster has displaced over 30,000 people, now awaiting aid.
Ishikawa prefectural government and other sources, as reported by Kyodo news agency, confirmed 16 additional fatalities in Wajima city and Anamizu town by Saturday afternoon, raising the death toll to 110. Earlier on Saturday, the Ishikawa government's website listed 98 confirmed deaths.
This event marks the most significant loss of life since the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes in southwestern Japan, which resulted in 276 deaths, including indirect casualties.
Road blockages and logistical challenges are hampering relief supply efforts.
In Wajima, Masao Mochizuki, a 73-year-old freelance cameraman, stood in a long line at a recently reopened supermarket on Thursday. "Having the store open again is a big help," Mochizuki told Reuters. He purchased heat patches, blue plastic sheets for his broken windows, and shoes to protect against the glass littering his home.
Yet, Mochizuki voiced concerns about the daunting task of rebuilding, his voice tinged with emotion.
