TOKYO: Amidst the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes in central Japan, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako made a compassionate decision to cancel the traditional New Year greetings with the public on Tuesday.
The cancellation comes as a gesture of consideration for the victims and the extensive damage suffered by Ishikawa Prefecture and its surrounding areas.
Originally planned to be the first New Year greeting without COVID restrictions, the Imperial Household prioritizes empathy for those affected by the recent seismic activity.
On New Year’s Day, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck central Japan, claiming at least eight lives and leaving many trapped beneath collapsed buildings. The severity of the damage remains uncertain, with rescue efforts underway to reach those in distress.
Wajima City, in particular, witnessed a dramatic scene as a seven-story building lay on its side, illustrating the force of the quake.
In response to the earthquake, a tsunami warning was promptly issued, heightening concerns for coastal regions. Although the warning has been downgraded to an advisory, the region grapples with the dual challenges of earthquake aftermath and potential coastal impacts. The cancellation of the New Year greetings reflects the Imperial Household’s commitment to expressing solidarity with the affected communities during this trying time.
