On January 1st, a "massive" fire broke out in the city of Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, due to an earthquake. What is the current situation? What should be noted after the earthquake?

Earthquake Impact on Noto Peninsula

The maximum slip of this earthquake occurred on land, which is both good news and bad news.

The earthquake ruptured a 150km long fault in a reverse faulting pattern, with the maximum slip of 3.5m located on the Noto Peninsula.

The maximum slip being on the peninsula means that, on one hand, it avoided significant changes in the seabed crust, preventing a major tsunami from occurring. This is also why the predicted maximum tsunami wave height was 5m, but the actual measured wave height was less than 2m.

However, the largest rupture occurring on land also means that the intensity on land was greater. The intensity in most of Ishikawa Prefecture ranged from 6+ to 7 on the Japanese scale, equivalent to above 8 on our country’s scale, especially in the western part of the peninsula where the intensity was 7, equivalent to intensity 10 in our country’s scale.

This indicates that the local ground acceleration was substantial, and the ground deformation was severe.

Although Japan has comprehensive earthquake resistance measures and many earthquake-resistant buildings, facing an intensity and acceleration of 10, many buildings will still be destroyed.

The fires in Ishikawa Prefecture are evidence of this.

After major earthquakes in Japan, fires are relatively common due to the prevalence of wooden buildings.

Historically, major earthquakes like the Great Kanto earthquake, the Hanshin earthquake, and even the 3.11 earthquake have resulted in widespread fires in Japan.

Especially in the case of the Great Kanto earthquake, the number of people who died in the fire exceeded tens of thousands.

The earthquake disaster was also relatively widespread this time.

Of course, the epicenter area of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture has been a frequent seismic zone in Japan since 2007, characterized by a typical dense cluster of earthquakes. The earthquake-resistant capabilities of local buildings still play a crucial role and continue to reduce casualties significantly.

Severe Earthquake Strikes Japan on New Year’s Day

This was an extremely serious earthquake that delivered a harsh blow to the Japanese on the first day of the New Year.

This day is the most important for the Japanese, akin to a natural disaster occurring during our Spring Festival.

Some onsite images show the extent of the situation. For videos, refer to my other responses.

The Shinkansen was halted, leading to significant passenger delays.

Japan typically has few earthquake fatalities, mainly due to tsunamis. This time, the tsunami warnings allowed for immediate evacuation, but the outlook is grim when facing a large tsunami.

Additionally, Japanese television programs warned foreigners to evacuate using multiple languages.

In summary, this was a very severe earthquake, frightening the Japanese to an extreme degree.

Post-Earthquake Fires and Nuclear Concerns in Japan

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake followed by a 5-meter tsunami, a 1600-meter volcanic smoke column, and now fires…

The scale of the fires, for now, appears to be limited. Most people had evacuated buildings after the earthquake, so the casualties caused by the fires are minimal.

What factors can lead to fires after an earthquake?

1. Gas Leaks and Explosions: Earthquakes can cause gas pipelines to rupture or valves to break, leading to the leakage of flammable gases such as natural gas or LPG, which may ignite when they come into contact with a fire source.
2. Electrical Facility Malfunctions: Collapsed electric poles and broken transmission lines during an earthquake can lead to short circuits and sparks, igniting nearby flammable materials. Additionally, electrical equipment damaged by shaking may also cause fires.
3. Uncontrolled Stoves: Household stoves or other heating equipment may topple or fail to extinguish due to the severe shaking during an earthquake, leading to fires.
4. Chemical Hazard Spills: Chemical plants, laboratories, and storage facilities for chemical goods may spill chemicals or break containers after an earthquake. Certain chemicals may ignite or explode upon contact with air or after mixing, leading to fires.
5. Building Collapse: As buildings collapse, they might crush indoor fire sources (such as fireplaces, water heaters, electrical appliances, etc.) and expose furniture and decorative materials to open flames, especially in older buildings with insufficient seismic design.
6. Improper Fire Use in Shelters: Temporary shelters constructed post-disaster often use flammable materials. If evacuees do not follow fire safety precautions, using candles, bonfires, or other open flames for heating or lighting can easily lead to fires.

To effectively avoid post-earthquake fires, what we need to do includes: conducting safety inspections and maintenance of household gas and electrical facilities in advance; shutting off gas and cutting off electricity quickly during an earthquake, and reporting potential hazards promptly; ensuring stove safety and properly managing flammable materials; improving buildings' earthquake resistance, standardizing fire use in shelters; and strictly following operational procedures in rescue work to minimize accidental fire sources. Through these measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of fires following an earthquake.

Are there any nuclear power plants nearby?

Yes, there’s one in Ishikawa and several others within two hundred kilometers.

Japan’s officials need to properly address potential accidents at nuclear power plants this time.

Earthquake and Fire Safety Tips

News reports have mentioned a large-scale fire near Asaichi Street in Kawamata-cho, close to the mouth of the Kawaradani River in Rondo City, Japan. This area is home to numerous shops and residences.

Japanese netizens have reported that the fire spread rapidly, and the situation is severe:

The critical issue here is that the fire has spread extensively, with reports of an entire city block being on fire, yet only three fire trucks have arrived. Oh my…

In fact, this fire can be considered a secondary disaster caused by the earthquake.

Reasons for Fires Caused by Earthquakes

There are several reasons why earthquakes can lead to fires:

• Strong tremors can cause buildings to collapse. If gas pipelines rupture, flammable gases can be released, leading to fires if exposed to open flames.

• During earthquakes, the electrical grid can be damaged, resulting in short circuits in power lines. Overloaded electrical appliances connected to these lines can also ignite fires.

• Collisions involving transportation vehicles can trigger fires. Additionally, earthquakes can cause the release of underground flammable gases like methane, further contributing to fire risks.

The key challenge with these fires is their unpredictability. Earthquakes can lead to secondary fires that are difficult to prevent. The Great Kanto Earthquake in Japan, for instance, claimed many lives due to such secondary fires.

These fires are challenging to prevent and extinguish because earthquakes can damage essential infrastructure, rendering firefighting resources such as water, lighting, and communication equipment inaccessible.

Safety Measures During and After an Earthquake

During an earthquake, the most important thing is to protect your head and neck. If possible, seek refuge in open spaces nearby.

If you cannot move quickly, take cover under a table or in a corner of a room. Be cautious to avoid furniture, appliances, bookshelves, or any objects that may fall and cause injury.

Remember, during and after an earthquake-induced fire, do not use elevators under any circumstances, even if the earthquake has ended. Earthquake aftershocks are possible.

Furthermore, after an earthquake, stay away from signs, trees, buildings, and utility poles. Additionally, steer clear of cliffs and steep slopes, as there may be dangers like falling rocks or landslides.

Crisis in Japan: Earthquake, Fire, and Volcanic Eruption

On one side, there are wildfires; on the other, tsunamis. Half is engulfed in flames, and the other half is underwater. The people in Japan are caught in the midst of this disaster!

If we add a nuclear power plant leak to this mix, with multiple factors stacking up along with earthquakes, it’s a scenario even the far-right extremists in Japan might fear.

In Ishikawa Prefecture’s Wajima City, a “large-scale” fire has erupted. It’s unlikely caused by incendiary bombs but rather by earthquake damage to natural gas pipelines.

According to the latest news from NHK, after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, some buildings in Wajima City have collapsed, the ground has sunk, and firefighters are battling the flames. Wajima Port has already experienced a 1.2-meter-high tsunami (with larger waves possibly following).

There’s also fear that the active volcanoes in Japan might chain react. If that happens, iconic landscapes like Mount Fuji could be lost forever, which would be a great loss.

In fact, the volcanic island of Suwanosejima, part of the Tokara Islands, has already erupted. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, an eruption occurred at around 3:12 PM local time on January 1st at the summit of Mount Ontake on Suwanosejima Island.

Suwanosejima is located in the middle of the Tokara Islands and is an active volcano with a coastline of 27 kilometers. Mount Ontake, at an altitude of 799 meters, is located in the center of the island. In recent years, volcanic activity on Suwanosejima Island has been frequent, and based on reports from the scene, the area is covered in volcanic ash.

We hope that the local residents and compatriots will quickly evacuate to safety. If possible, returning home might be a wise choice. No matter how beautiful the moon is on the other side, “home is where the heart is.”

Japan’s earthquake and disaster relief capabilities are among the best globally. If needed, many rescue teams from various countries would likely be willing to assist.

However, for now, please don’t call me. I don’t have the money to buy a ticket, seriously.

Secondary Disasters Following Earthquakes

After an earthquake, many essential infrastructures are often damaged, leading to a series of subsequent issues commonly referred to as secondary disasters.

When a strong earthquake occurs, the existing natural and societal conditions are disrupted, which can result in fires, gas pollution, bacterial contamination, radioactive contamination, landslides, mudslides, and floods. Coastal areas may also be vulnerable to tsunamis. Earthquakes in winter can lead to frost-related disasters, while those in summer, due to the inability to handle human and animal remains promptly and worsening environmental conditions, may cause environmental pollution and epidemics. Additionally, during an earthquake, some individuals may jump from buildings, and mass panic in public places can result in casualties due to trampling, pushing, and falling.

These post-earthquake threats to life are collectively referred to as secondary disasters of earthquakes.

Apart from tsunamis, landslides, mudslides, and other secondary disasters caused by crustal movements, other earthquake-related secondary disasters can generally be categorized by their causes, such as fires, gas pollution, and bacterial contamination.

Among them, fires are the most common and often the most severe secondary disaster, with various causes and a wide-ranging impact.

Fires are typically ignited due to reasons like short circuits in electrical systems, collapsing stoves, electrical leaks, and chemical reactions involving combustible gases and gasoline during earthquakes. Certain facilities like thermal power plants and nuclear power plants are equipped with cooling systems to regulate temperature. However, during an earthquake, power outages, water supply interruptions, and damage to infrastructure can render these cooling systems ineffective, potentially leading to fires.

Therefore, in addition to promptly rescuing trapped individuals and providing proper care for affected populations after an earthquake, it is crucial to take preventive measures against earthquake-related secondary disasters.

• For earthquakes occurring in winter, it is essential to take cold-weather precautions. Pay attention to keeping the head, hands, and feet warm to prevent frostbite, and avoid contact with cold water as much as possible. Keep gloves and socks dry, and if frostbite occurs, take immediate measures such as soaking in warm water or applying frostbite ointment.
• Preventing Infectious Diseases: Diseases that can occur after an earthquake include intestinal infections, respiratory infections, zoonotic diseases, and diseases spread through contact and soil. Protect water sources, avoid drinking untreated water, and maintain proper hygiene by not defecating or urinating indiscriminately. Also, take precautions to prevent respiratory infections like colds, bronchitis, and influenza, and promptly remove garbage and waste while ensuring environmental disinfection.
• Prevention of disasters like fires and floods: The public should cooperate with rescue personnel and local authorities' coordination and arrangements. Relevant authorities should also focus on psychological counseling for the public, raise awareness of safety, and organize organized post-disaster reconstruction efforts.

It is crucial to remember some standard safety measures as well[2].

Water Overflow in Fuel Pools at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) has announced the confirmation of water overflow in the top-level fuel pools of Reactor Buildings 2, 3, 6, and 7 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant in Niigata Prefecture.

According to TEPCO, during an inspection of the fuel pools of Units 1 to 7 at around 6:45 PM, approximately 10 liters of water overflowed from Unit 2, 0.46 liters from Unit 3, 600 liters from Unit 6, and 4 liters from Unit 7. This water contains radioactive materials, and the radioactive levels are currently being measured.

The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant is located just 120 kilometers away from Tokyo, and it is the largest one that is currently being prepared for restart.

Another nuclear power plant is situated at a distance of 60 kilometers. The Shika Nuclear Power Station has been shut down due to a severe nuclear incident in 2006.

This revelation raises concerns, considering Japan’s history of concealing issues. The extent of the potential danger remains uncertain. It follows a similar script to the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant disaster.

In reality, Japan might not be suitable for nuclear power due to the inherent risks and the potential harm it poses to both people and the environment.

Secondary Fires Following Earthquakes: Prevention and Historical Examples

According to CCTV News, the earthquake in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, has already caused at least 2 injuries. According to the Chinese Consulate General in Osaka, there are currently no reports of Chinese citizens being injured or killed in this earthquake.

Earthquakes not only cause direct destruction but also trigger secondary disasters such as fires, which often result in even greater losses. The secondary fires from earthquakes, like the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 1923 Tokyo earthquake, are considered some of the largest fire incidents during peacetime in human history. The 1906 San Francisco earthquake, with a magnitude of 8.3, resulted in over 3,000 deaths, the destruction of over 28,000 buildings, and the displacement of 250,000 people. Investigations revealed that the fires that raged for three days after the earthquake accounted for 80% of the total losses. The 1923 Tokyo earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.9, caused 140,000 deaths and the destruction of around 450,000 houses, with secondary fires contributing to nearly 77% of the total losses [1].

Typical scenarios for secondary fires after earthquakes include building collapses leading to gas leaks and subsequent ignition, as well as improper use of open flames like candles during aftershocks, which can lead to fires [2].

Preventing secondary fires following earthquakes involves two levels: specific engineering structures and equipment facilities and disaster zoning units. For engineering structures, it is essential to understand the performance degradation patterns of secondary fires in various types of structures, especially critical structures in the oil and gas industry, and establish seismic and fire resistance requirements. Quantitative indicators for different damage levels should be developed to facilitate performance-based design. For disaster zoning units, hazard sources should be classified and regulated based on their specific attributes. Regular inspections should be intensified to ensure that building structures and equipment facilities within zoning units have reliable and complete seismic and fire resistance capabilities.

Earthquake in Japan - Safety Measures and Impacts

On January 1, 2024, at 15:10 (Beijing Time), a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Honshu, Japan, in the near-sea area (37.55°N, 137.49°E). The earthquake had a depth of 59 kilometers. According to the Natural Resources Department’s Tsunami Warning Center, the earthquake triggered a localized tsunami near the epicenter but will not have any impact on China’s coastline.

According to Kyodo News, the Japan Meteorological Agency reported a seismic intensity of 7 (Japanese standard) in Ishikawa Prefecture around 4:00 PM on January 1. Tokyo also experienced noticeable shaking. The Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) reported that the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning. In some areas of Ishikawa Prefecture, tsunami waves reached heights of up to 5 meters, while Niigata Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, and the rest of Ishikawa Prefecture are expected to experience waves up to 3 meters high. As of 5:00 PM local time, several meters high tsunamis have been observed in various parts of Japan, particularly a 5-meter high tsunami in the vicinity of the epicenter. NHK reported that a fire broke out in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, on January 1 due to the earthquake, and local firefighters are working to extinguish it.

After an earthquake, it is advisable to take the following measures:

1. Evacuate Hazardous Areas Promptly: Leave immediately from dangerous places such as buildings, mountainsides, and cliffs, and seek refuge in open areas. Do not use elevators to avoid getting trapped.

2. Find a Safe Shelter: If you cannot leave a hazardous area, quickly find a relatively safe place to take cover, such as under sturdy tables, beds, or in corners. Stay calm and avoid panic.

3. Protect Your Head and Neck: Take protective measures, such as using your hands to shield your head and neck to prevent injuries from falling objects. If possible, find a helmet or backpack to protect your head.

4. Avoid Open Flames: Earthquakes can trigger secondary disasters like fires. Avoid using open flames and try to maintain a low profile. Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to reduce inhalation of harmful smoke.

5. Contact Rescue Personnel: After the earthquake, contact local rescue authorities as soon as possible, informing them of your location and situation. If possible, use a mobile phone or other communication tools to make contact.

6. Preserve Energy: While waiting for rescue, conserve your energy and avoid excessive physical exertion. Additionally, pay attention to staying warm and protected from the sun and maintain a positive psychological state.

Respect and revere nature, and be grateful for it.

When you do too many bad things, there will be consequences.

The activity in the Eurasian-Pacific Seismic Zone is highly active, with continuous energy release. In the west, from Gansu to Qinghai, extending eastward to Japan, earthquakes are frequent, along with volcanic eruptions in Japan.

Earthquakes can lead to fires, which are common secondary disasters. It may be due to damage to natural gas pipelines or the leakage and explosion of flammable and explosive materials in nearby chemical factories.

Fire Breaks Out in Ishikawa, Japan - Emergency Guidelines Post-Earthquake

According to CCTV International News [1], a fire has broken out in the city of Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, and is spreading. Firefighters are currently working to extinguish the blaze. Earlier reports mentioned that Wajima City had observed a tsunami with waves exceeding 1.2 meters after consecutive strong earthquakes. Footage taken by a photographer from the ground in Wajima City around 6 PM on the 1st shows intense flames and white smoke rising.

As for post-earthquake precautions, I would like to reference an article from the Ministry of Emergency Management of the People’s Republic of China [2].

Self-Rescue Tips After an Earthquake:

• Ensure clear breathing, remove debris from your head and chest. If you smell gas or toxic fumes, cover your mouth and nose with wet clothes, and avoid unstable debris overhead and other objects that may fall. Enlarge and stabilize your survival space by using bricks, wooden sticks, etc., to support unstable walls to prevent further deterioration of the environment after aftershocks.
• If you cannot find an escape route, try to conserve energy. Use rocks to make noise and signal for help. Avoid crying out, panicking, or acting blindly, as it consumes a significant amount of energy. Try to control your emotions, close your eyes, and rest, waiting for rescue personnel. If injured, attempt self-bandaging to prevent excessive bleeding.
• If you are trapped under rubble for an extended period, and rescue personnel have not arrived or cannot hear your cries for help, focus on sustaining your life. Conserve water and food supplies from your emergency kit. Try to locate additional food and drinking water, and if necessary, your own urine can serve as a thirst quencher.
• If you are in a tripod zone, use nearby objects to shield yourself from further harm during aftershocks. Extend your hands and chest, clear any loose stones from your face, allowing you to breathe while waiting for rescue.

Some people are really feeling so uncomfortable, well, in that case… I’ll just revel in their misfortune, hehehe.

Japan is currently following the lead of the United States, which now views China as an adversary. Let the fire rage, but it should be directed towards the Japanese government, not towards the ordinary citizens.

Although they constantly pay respects at the Yasukuni Shrine, where the most recent heinous war criminals from the invasion of China are enshrined. A punishing earthquake would suffice, no need to fan the flames any further. Sigh.

Earthquake in Ishikawa, Japan: Updates and Safety Measures

According to CCTV News, the earthquake in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, has caused at least 2 injuries. According to the Chinese Consulate General in Osaka, there have been no reports of casualties among Chinese citizens in this earthquake.

At least 19 earthquakes with tremors reported

On January 1st, local time, multiple earthquakes, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 7.6, occurred consecutively in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan.

The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that after 4:00 PM on that day, there have been at least 19 earthquakes with tremors reported. Among them, there was one with a seismic intensity of 7 or higher, three with a seismic intensity of 5-strong, one with a seismic intensity of 5-weak, eight with a seismic intensity of 4, and six with a seismic intensity of 3.

At 6:10 PM, the Japan Meteorological Agency held an emergency press conference, urging residents in tsunami warning areas to evacuate immediately. They also highlighted the possibility of another earthquake with a seismic intensity of around 7 in the next week, especially within the next two to three days.

According to reports from Global Times, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered the Japanese government to fully respond to the disaster.

No anomalies reported in multiple nuclear facilities

CCTV News reported that the Japan Nuclear Regulation Authority announced that the strong earthquake in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture has not affected multiple nuclear power plants in Ishikawa, Niigata, Fukui, and other areas.

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) stated that there have been no abnormalities confirmed at the Fukushima Daiichi and Daini nuclear power plants, and radiation monitoring data near the nuclear power plants have not shown significant changes.

Due to the strong earthquake, several Shinkansen (bullet train) lines in Japan have been suspended. The Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Odawara and the Fukuhoku Yutaka Line between Toyama and Shin-Kobe are temporarily suspended. The Tohoku Shinkansen, Joetsu Shinkansen, and Hokuriku Shinkansen have all ceased operations.

Furthermore, approximately 32,800 households in Ishikawa Prefecture are experiencing power outages, with around 90 households in Fukui Prefecture, adjacent to Ishikawa, also affected.

Tsunami warnings issued by multiple countries

On January 1st, local time, after a strong earthquake near Ishikawa Prefecture, North Korea’s Central Broadcasting Station issued a tsunami warning for the waters near Ishikawa, Japan.

Following the earthquake in Japan, Russia’s Sakhalin Region, the far eastern city of Vladivostok, and Nahodka issued tsunami warnings. Local emergency authorities stated that the expected wave heights in the Sakhalin Region are not expected to exceed 50 centimeters, and the wave heights near Vladivostok are not expected to exceed 30 centimeters, with no need for evacuation of coastal residents at this time.

South Korea’s Meteorological Administration reported that a tsunami was observed on the east coast of South Korea following the strong earthquake in the northern waters of Ishikawa Prefecture. The earliest tsunami arrival was at 6:01 PM local time in Gangneung South Port with a height of 20 centimeters, followed by 45 centimeters in Donghae Mokpo at 6:06 PM, 30 centimeters in Sokcho at 6:10 PM, and 24 centimeters in Samcheok Rinwon Port at 6:15 PM.

The Korean Meteorological Administration predicts that the tsunami height will not exceed the warning criteria of 50 centimeters. However, they emphasize that the tsunami height is the “height of the tsunami wave,” which does not reflect the changing sea level with the tide. Therefore, the danger level may exceed the indicated numerical value, especially when the tsunami coincides with high tide. The Korean Meteorological Administration states that the “tsunami may last for more than 24 hours” and advises nearby residents to stay updated with relevant information.

Reminders for Chinese Citizens in Japan Regarding Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness

According to the official WeChat account of the Chinese Embassy in Japan, on January 1st, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 occurred in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, affecting multiple areas along the Japanese coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for various coastal regions. Chinese citizens in Japan are advised to closely monitor weather warnings and disaster prevention information, follow evacuation instructions, stay away from the coast, and ensure personal safety.

Based on the current information, there was a large-scale fire in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, on January 1st, due to the earthquake, and the situation is quite severe. Both earthquakes and fires can result in significant casualties and property losses, so it is essential to consider the following:

1. Prioritize Safety: After an earthquake or fire, evacuate to a safe location as soon as possible. Follow instructions and avoid panic to prevent chaos and unnecessary harm.

2. Stay Informed: Stay updated with official information from local government and media to understand the latest developments and trends related to the disaster.

3. Maintain Communication: Communication facilities may be damaged after a disaster, causing communication issues. Therefore, keep communication lines open and stay in touch with family, friends, and local authorities for the latest information.

4. Avoid Open Flames: After a fire, be cautious about using open flames to prevent further spread and additional casualties.

5. Protect Personal Belongings: After a disaster, safeguard personal belongings such as cash, identification, and bank cards for timely handling if needed.

6. Follow Regulations: After a disaster, adhere to regulations and instructions from local government and relevant authorities. Avoid taking unauthorized actions or entering dangerous areas to prevent unnecessary trouble and losses.

In the event of an earthquake and fire, prioritize safety, follow regulations, and protect yourself and those around you. Additionally, stay informed with official updates to better respond to the disaster.

New Year’s Astrological Observations

Originally, I wanted to say, “Why should I care about Jesus' birthday…?” But upon closer examination of the lunar calendar, I realized that January 1st happens to fall on a “Jia Zi” month and “Jia Zi” day, so I can’t take it lightly. It seems like there might be some real implications for the country’s fate.

I just hope they don’t have another nuclear leak, endangering other Earthlings. Anything else is fair game.

It’s currently 15:10 Beijing time, and even if we add an hour for Japan, it’s still the “Shen” hour…

“Zhao” is associated with the lunar calendar, so the essence of the world is also tied to Japan…

The inauspicious stars hint at financial trouble in the “Yin” month after the beginning of spring. Fortunately, it’s represented by the Vermilion Bird, which suggests administrative resolutions. If it were the White Tiger, it would signify a potential conflict or war declaration by Japan.

Response to the Earthquake in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Thank you for the invitation.

From the videos in the news, it appears that the scale of the fire is significant. As reported, multiple fires have broken out in the Kawai-cho area of Wajima City, and as of 19:00 Japan time, the fires have not been extinguished. It is reported that people are trapped at the scene, and it is currently unclear whether there are casualties.

In addition to the fires, there have been reports of collapsed houses in Wajima City. It is highly likely that the fires are a result of the structural damage to the houses. According to the Ishikawa Prefecture Wajima City Fire Department, many people are still trapped at this time. Due to a high volume of emergency calls, it is currently impossible to assess the extent of casualties in the city.

Wajima City is a municipality under Ishikawa Prefecture with a relatively small population, with around 30,000 permanent residents, predominantly elderly. After the earthquake, many residents are afraid of aftershocks and are reluctant to stay in their homes. They have been heading to designated evacuation centers. Currently, the center has already admitted over 200 people, with the number continually increasing, surpassing the center’s capacity.

Currently, many areas in Wajima City have had their power supply restored. However, there is a shortage of essential supplies such as baby formula and diapers. Local officials are actively coordinating relief efforts from various parties.

As the earthquake occurred at the start of the new year, the Governor of Ishikawa Prefecture was on his way back to his hometown. Upon learning of the earthquake, he immediately prepared to return but was faced with closures of Shinkansen, expressways, and airports due to the earthquake. Currently, he is coordinating to return via a Self-Defense Force helicopter.

After an earthquake, the most critical concerns are secondary disasters that may follow, such as tsunamis, landslides, fires, and more. With the disaster occurring during the winter season, providing shelter for the affected population and medical treatment for the injured pose significant challenges for the government.

Furthermore, the threat of aftershocks should not be underestimated. The Japan Meteorological Agency has just held an emergency press conference, stating that there is a possibility of earthquakes with a magnitude of up to 7.0 in the coming days and urging people to take disaster preparedness measures. Travelers in Japan are advised to pay special attention to earthquake updates and avoid coastal areas if possible. If conditions allow, consider returning to your home country sooner rather than later.

While considering the humanitarian perspective, one should sympathize with the residents of Japan. However, I have a doubt: could this be retaliation by the fish in the polluted sea?

Compared to nuclear power plants, fires are a minor issue. This place has a nuclear power plant, and I don’t know if they have encountered any problems this time. We’ll have to wait and see for further updates.