PREVIEW

Earthquakes Devastate Japan's West Coast Killing at Least 48. A series of strong earthquakes struck western Japan on New Year's Day, NBC News reports. Officials in the Ishikawa prefecture said that at least 48 people were killed, while another 16 were severely injured. The Japanese government's death and injury tallies, reported by spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi, were slightly different. However, the damage is reportedly so extensive that an accurate assessment cannot be easily attained at this time. Water, electricity and cellphone service continue to be affected in some areas. On Jan. 2, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that 1,000 soldiers have been dispatched to aid rescue efforts. "Saving lives is our priority and we are fighting a battle against time. It is critical that people trapped in homes get rescued immediately.", Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, via statement. Nuclear regulators claim that the nuclear plants in the area are still operating normally. All tsunami warnings have been lifted. Officials warn that additional quakes could occur in the next few days, NBC reports. President Joe Biden said, "My administration is in touch with Japanese officials, and the United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Japanese people”. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT