Horrifying Footage Captures Scene Inside Metro Station As Earthquake Hits Japan

Japan was struck by a series of powerful earthquakes on the first day of 2024. The seismic activity had a magnitude of 7.6. Videos circulating on social media captured the harrowing moments as the initial quake rattled Japan. A viral video shows the rapid swinging of display boards and the entire platform of a metro station, followed by darkness, in the aftermath of the strong earthquake that struck Japan.

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According to a report from SBS News, the death toll has reached at least 48, with search and rescue efforts ongoing.

The 7.6 magnitude earthquake had its epicentre on the peninsula that extends into the Sea of Japan, causing the loss of life and injuries in that region, as per the Guardian report.

The affected areas are now grappling with the possibility of aftershocks in the coming days. The meteorological agency has advised residents of coastal regions to remain cautious, despite the lifting of tsunami warnings, the report added.

The Japanese public broadcaster NHK TV issued initial warnings of potential torrents of water reaching up to five meters, prompting the evacuation of residents to sports halls, schools and other public buildings. In response to the crisis, bullet trains and flights to and from the affected region were all suspended on Tuesday morning.

Additionally, sections of major highways were closed, and water supplies were disrupted due to burst pipes in certain areas, as reported by NHK. The region also faced challenges with damaged mobile phone networks; however, efforts were underway to gradually restore service.

Japan is no stranger to seismic activity, being the most earthquake-prone nation globally. However, the magnitude and impact of this recent event are particularly significant. The last time Japan faced a tsunami warning of this magnitude was during the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, which claimed the lives of 18,000 people.

The 2011 disaster also led to nuclear meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, prompting Japan to reevaluate its energy policies. Since then, nearly all of the country’s nuclear power plants have been mothballed.

Why is Japan Prone to Earthquakes and Tsunamis?

Japan’s vulnerability to earthquakes and tsunamis can be attributed to its unique geological setting. The country is situated at the convergence of several tectonic plates, making it prone to seismic activities. Specifically, four larger tectonic plates meet in the region.

The primary reason for Japan’s seismic activity is its location on the Ring of Fire. The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped zone that encircles the edges of the Pacific Ocean, characterised by intense volcanic and seismic activity. It is home to numerous active volcanoes and is known for frequent earthquakes.