Responding to the escalating crisis, Japan s Self-Defense Forces have doubled their deployment to 4,600 troops involved in rescue and relief efforts, as reported by the Kyodo news agency.
The death toll from a powerful earthquake in central Japan has reached 62, with over 300 injuries reported. Tens of thousands of homes were destroyed and basic services such as water, power, and cell phone service remain disrupted amid aftershocks.
Severed roads, damaged infrastructure, and remote locations have hindered rescue efforts. The full extent of damage and casualties remains unclear two days after the quake. Japan government has opened a sea route to deliver aid and some larger trucks were now able to reach some of the more remote areas.
In the massive earthquake, several buildings crumbled, fires broke out, and tsunami warnings were sent as far away as eastern Russia, following the earthquake, whereas people in Japan s coastal areas were ordered to evacuate.
Japan Earthquake Latest News: In the aftermath of a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan on New Year's Day, the nation grapples with the aftermath as at least 30 people have lost their lives and scores remain trapped under debris. The Japanese meteorological agency officially lifted all tsunami warnings and advisories on Tuesday, but the country is now focused on the urgent task of rescuing victims from widespread devastation.