Military personnel, firefighters, and police have been tirelessly combing through collapsed buildings to locate survivors, highlighting the extensive rescue efforts underway since the New Year's Day quake.

Authorities have raised concerns about landslides on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, exacerbated by heavy snowfall, further hampering recovery and posing additional risks to affected areas.

The visual aftermath tells a grim tale of crumbled houses, damaged city blocks, and highways riddled with holes and cracks, underlining the substantial damage to infrastructure caused by the earthquake and subsequent events.

The quake resulted in at least 161 deaths, with several towns severely affected - Wajima and Suzu each accounting for 70 deaths. Moreover, hundreds of homes were destroyed or significantly damaged.

The earthquake's impact on livelihoods, such as the fishing industry, has been profound. Fishermen like Shuji Yoshiura face challenges as the seabed alteration caused by the quake restricts their ability to resume their usual work.

Kentaro Mitsumori's story reflects the despair faced by local businesses in places like Wajima. The destruction of shops, lack of basic utilities, and anticipated loss of customers paint a bleak economic future for the community.

Nearly 30,000 displaced individuals residing in evacuation centers face various challenges, including concerns about COVID-19 infections, insufficient initial aid, and the struggle to access basic necessities.

While initial aid was limited, recent arrivals of assistance have brought hope, with facilities now able to provide hot meals and temporary bathing facilities, offering some relief to those affected.

The earthquake's timing on New Year's Day has compounded the emotional strain, leaving many isolated and mourning the loss of family gatherings. Survivors like Mizue Kaba, who narrowly escaped, grapple with uncertainty about the future, residing in makeshift shelters with inadequate heating amid harsh conditions.