Devendra Kumar
Rescue workers are racing against time to find survivors amidst the rubble and debris left by powerful earthquakes that struck western Japan, killing 73 people and trapping dozens more under collapsed buildings.
As temperatures are expected to drop and heavy rain forecasted, rescue efforts are becoming increasingly challenging. The Japanese government has warned that the first 72 hours are critical, and the prospects for survival greatly diminish after three days.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida acknowledged that time is running out and urged rescue teams to work efficiently to find those trapped. The government is providing relief supplies, including water, blankets, and food, to affected areas.
Search teams, including military personnel and firefighters, are working to locate and rescue those trapped, while search dogs are being used to detect survivors. The exact number of people trapped is unclear, but officials believe dozens are still waiting for rescue.
The earthquakes and subsequent tsunami caused widespread destruction, with entire neighborhoods affected. Many homes are either partially or totally destroyed, leaving residents without access to basic necessities.
As the situation unfolds, officials are warning of potential landslides and further damage due to the rain. With temperatures expected to drop to around 4C (39F) overnight, ensuring adequate water supplies and bathroom services for those displaced is a priority.
Residents who have managed to escape are struggling to come to terms with the devastation, with many left without electricity, water, or mobile phone service. The Japanese government is urging people to take precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, such as wearing masks and using hand sanitizer.
Emergency responders are working to prevent and respond to potential fires, with a large fire destroying a section of Wajima city. As the rescue effort continues, officials are warning that even bigger earthquakes could hit, and disaster preparedness is crucial.
The aftermath of the disaster has prompted concerns about the safety of Japan’s nuclear plants, although no major problems or rise in radiation levels have been reported. The Japanese government has acknowledged the severity of the disaster and is working to provide assistance to those affected, with international support also pouring in from leaders around the world.