The death toll from the series of powerful earthquakes that struck the central Japanese prefecture of Ishikawa earlier this week, increased to 94 on Friday, with at least 250 persons reportedly missing as rescue and search efforts intensify amid concerns of escalating damages. The Self-Defense Forces have also expanded their efforts with approximately 4,600 personnel involved, collaborating with the police and fire departments to expedite search and confirmation of the safety of the missing people.
The delivery of essential supplies remains a challenge, with over 10 locations experiencing road closures due to landslides. Meanwhile, over 700 people are stranded in isolated communities across the prefecture.
The region’s infrastructure has suffered severe setbacks, with around 30,000 households facing power outages and 80,000 others in 13 cities and towns experiencing water supply disruptions.