The Japan Meteorological Agency on Monday (January 1) reported a series of 21 earthquakes, with the most powerful reaching a magnitude of 7.6, triggering tsunami warnings and prompting urgent evacuations in central Japan.


Terrifying visuals emerged from Japan following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that triggered a tsunami warning similar to the one issued following the March 2011 quake in the Tohoku region. Tremors from the quake were felt in Tokyo and across the Kanto region, and the Associated Press reported that Japanese officials had ordered people to relocate to higher ground. 


The earthquake, which struck the Noto region of Ishikawa prefecture at around 4:10 pm (local time), has prompted authorities to issue urgent evacuation orders as they prepare for the potential onslaught of hazardous tsunami waves.


Several videos of the quake's aftermath were shared on social media, showing cars jolting and people attempting to take shelter inside their homes. Click here to read more. 


Several houses and power poles collapsed in Suzu city, Japanese broadcaster NHK reported citing officials. 


Japan Reports 21 Earthquakes Above 4.0 Magnitude In Rapid Succession


The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a series of earthquakes in the Noto region, beginning with a 5.7 magnitude tremor at 4:06 pm. 


This was followed by a massive 7.6-magnitude earthquake at 4:10 pm, which marked the epicentre of the unfolding crisis. A 6.1 magnitude quake struck at 4:18 pm, followed by a 4.5 magnitude tremor at 4:23 pm, a 4.6 magnitude quake at 4:29 pm, and a 4.8 magnitude quake at 4:32 pm. 


According to the US Geological Survey, a subsequent 6.2 magnitude earthquake exacerbated the already dire situation.


Over 33,000 Japanese Households Without Power


According to AFP, power has been cut off to approximately 33,500 households, and several major highways in the area have been closed. 


Local hospitals initially reported injuries, including broken bones, but no fatalities were confirmed at the time of writing, the Guardian reported. 


According to Reuters, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has ordered residents in affected areas to evacuate immediately. According to the Guardian, he arrived at his office at 5:15 pm. (local time) to assess the damage and lead the government's response. 


Meanwhile, a government spokesperson warned residents to brace themselves for more quakes.


According to the Japanese weather service, the epicentre of the earthquake was in the Noto region, at a very shallow depth, according to Nikkei Asia. 


According to the Nikkei Asia report, rail service on the Tohoku, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines has been temporarily suspended due to the earthquake. 


Click here for live updates on the January 1 earthquakes that jolted Japan.