"Japan's Earthquake Aftermath: Rising Death Toll and Shifting Landscapes Amid Search for Survivors"

The death toll from the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck Japan's west coast on New Year's Day has risen to 110, with over 200 people still missing. Rescue efforts are being complicated by rain and damaged infrastructure, with 22,000 homes losing power and 30,000 evacuees awaiting aid. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has urged for accelerated emergency efforts, and Japan's Self-Defence Forces are increasing their rescue staff. Many residents are sleeping in cars due to the destruction of homes and the need for quick evacuation in case of aftershocks or tsunamis.