Tragic Collision in the Skies
A devastating incident unfolded in Tokyo as a passenger plane crashed in flames, colliding with an aid aircraft en route to the earthquake-stricken west coast of Japan. The collision occurred on Tuesday just before 6 pm local time, involving a Japan Airlines flight and a Japanese coastguard plane. The coastguard plane was on a mission to deliver aid to the areas impacted by the powerful earthquakes that struck Japan on Monday, resulting in at least 48 casualties and widespread building damage.
Evacuation Efforts and Missing Individuals
The passenger plane, ablaze upon landing at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, carried 379 passengers and crew members, all of whom were successfully evacuated, according to Japan Airlines. However, reports from Japanese broadcaster NHK indicate that five out of six individuals on the coastguard plane remain unaccounted for. The collision adds a tragic layer to the challenges faced by Japan in the aftermath of the earthquakes.
Tsunami Warning and Coastal Precautions
In the wake of the earthquakes, a major tsunami warning was issued for Ishikawa prefecture on Japan’s central west coast. Lower-level warnings were extended to the western coast of Honshu and Hokkaido. Although the warning was later downgraded, coastal residents are advised against immediate returns due to the possibility of ongoing risks. Waves exceeding one meter were reported in some areas, affecting transportation, including bullet trains and flights, with temporary closures and halts.
Ongoing Disruptions and Travel Advisory
As Japan grapples with the aftermath, certain areas continue to face disruptions in water, power, and cell phone services. The UK Foreign Office issues travel advisories, cautioning about potential aftershocks and transportation disruptions. Travellers in affected regions are advised to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay updated with information from NHK World news, the Japan Meteorological Agency, and the Japan National Tourism Agency.
Earthquake Preparedness and Safety Measures
Given Japan’s frequent seismic activity, the National Tourism Agency provides safety recommendations for earthquake situations. Visitors are advised to protect their heads with a bag or hard object during a quake and seek shelter under a durable table if in accommodation. Open spaces or sturdy pillars away from falling objects are alternative safe spots. Additionally, in case of a tsunami warning, individuals should stay away from waterfronts, seek higher ground, and pay attention to official updates. Monday’s tsunami warning, the most severe since 2011, serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with natural disasters in the region.
SOURCE: Image Ref from Times Now
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