At least 48 people have died so far in a powerful earthquake in Japan which caused homes to collapse and triggered tsunami warnings on which occurred on Monday January 1, 2024.
The 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the central region of Japan a little after 16:00 local time on Monday
According to Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, the quake has caused numerous casualties and they face a “race against time” to rescue survivors
About 1,000 rescuers are searching for people who they think may be trapped beneath the rubble.
The Japanese military has also been handing out supplies including food, water and blankets for those who have had to leave home as a result of the disaster.
All tsunami advisories have now been lifted along the Sea of Japan, meaning there is no longer a risk of such an event.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says the US stands ready to provide any necessary assistance.
