Japan is known for the myriad of natural disasters that occur every year–tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. Although they are common, these disasters are not easy to cope with. Many people die or are injured in each tsunami, or hurricane, or earthquake. On Friday, April 15th, Japan was hit by a 7.3 magnitude earthquake, that injured hundreds and killed over a dozen people.
Japan had previously suffered a smaller, 6.5 magnitude earthquake on Thursday, April 14th, which is now considered to be a foreshock to Saturday’s earthquake due to it being smaller than the latter. For hours, people had been feeling tremors and aftershocks. Due to these earthquakes, it was estimated that Japan would be receiving a significant amount of rain afterwords, which also increases the risk of landslides–a few have already occurred.
A long with people already being displaced by damage to their homes, people were ordered to evacuate their homes due to dangers in the area. The aftermath of these earthquakes is still being comprehended as rescue workers seek to aid the injured and search for missing people. Troops have also been sent out to bring water and food and supplies to people that have had their resources cut off by landslides and the earthquakes; many are still without electricity and gas.
Tourism is a large part of the economy and is expected to suffer. Likewise, their economy will face another blow due to Toyota having a shortage of parts will temporarily be halting production.