Snowfall hampers rescue work after earthquake in Japan

Rescue efforts were hampered by plunging temperatures and snowfall. Many roads remained cut off by landslides and sinkholes.

This morning, it was pouring rain in Wajima city - one of the areas severely damaged by the New Year's earthquake. Because the ground is "loose", officials are worried that the rainy weather will increase the risk of landslides.

Scenes of devastation after the earthquake in Japan. (Photo: Reuters)

Some volunteers who participated in supporting people in the earthquake area said: "To get here, there is basically only one road so traffic is very congested. You can only use one lane and the remaining part of the road is at risk of collapsing, so moving through here will take a lot of time. If it snows, it is even more dangerous, limited visibility can easily cause accidents."

“The Self-Defense Forces and road repair workers are working hard to reopen this vital route. Otherwise, it will be difficult for aid to reach people in the disaster area.”

With some roads damaged by the quake, the Japanese government is sending relief supplies by sea to isolated coastal areas where many people remain stranded. According to government statistics, more than 31,800 people have been evacuated and are living in tents after the quake, with at least 200 buildings collapsed.

Happiness (VOV1/Reuters)

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