Death Toll In Japan Earthquake Hits 48, Thousands Trapped in Rubble

The number of people killed in a powerful earthquake in Japan which caused homes to collapse, and triggered tsunami warnings is now known to be 30.

Around 1,000 rescuers are searching for people who they think may be trapped beneath the rubble.

The earthquake damaged 1,000 houses in the coastal town of Suzu, with the Mayor, Masuhiro Izumiya, describing the aftermath as catastrophic, according to a Reuters report.

Japan’s Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, says the quake has caused numerous casualties and extensive damage.

The Japanese military has been handing out supplies including food, water and blankets for those who have had to leave home.

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Japan Issues Tsunami Warning After Strong Earthquake

All tsunami advisories have now been lifted along the Sea of Japan (East Sea), meaning there is no longer a risk of such an event.

President Joe Biden says the us stands ready to provide any necessary assistance.

The BBC’s Jean Mackenzie has visited the peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture where yesterday’s quake hit to assess the damage.

She tried to get as close as possible to the epicentre, despite significant damage cutting off routes in the region.

As a reminder, the 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck on Monday, killing at least 48 people.

We’ve just heard that the Japanese coast guard plane that is thought to have collided with a Japanese Airlines plane at Haneda Airport was heading to Niigata to join the rescue effort and transport goods, Japan’s Coast Guard has said.

The aircraft had six passengers. One of them evacuated, but five people are unaccounted for.