Japan Earthquake Death Toll Climbs to at Least 48 The death toll from the powerful earthquake in western Japan on Monday has risen to at least 48. The coastal epicenter, Wajima, saw 19 fatalities and was hit by a large fire, with many trapped in collapsed buildings. Tsunami warnings were lifted, but extensive damage and power outages persist. Over 57,000 people have evacuated to nearly 1,000 shelters, and officials continue to search for those buried in rubble. The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of potential aftershocks and urges caution for sea-based activities. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida assures efforts to clear roads and supply essentials to evacuation centers.