Breaking News: Major Earthquake Strikes Central Japan
Magnitude 7.2 Tremor Causes Widespread Damage and Casualties
Tokyo, Japan - A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 has struck central Japan, causing widespread damage and casualties. The epicenter of the earthquake was located in the Gifu prefecture, about 100 kilometers east of Nagoya. The earthquake struck at 10:41 a.m. local time, and was felt strongly throughout the region.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake was the strongest to hit Japan since the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. The agency has issued a tsunami warning for the coastal areas of Gifu, Aichi, and Mie prefectures. The warning has since been lifted.
NHK, Japan's public broadcaster, is reporting that at least 10 people have been confirmed dead and over 100 injured. The number of casualties is expected to rise as rescue workers continue to search for survivors.
The earthquake has caused widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure. Many buildings in Gifu and Nagoya have collapsed, and roads and bridges have been damaged. The Chuo Shinkansen, Japan's high-speed rail line, has been suspended between Tokyo and Osaka following the earthquake.
The Japanese government has deployed the Self-Defense Forces to the affected areas to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed his condolences to the victims and their families and has pledged the government's full support in the recovery process.
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