Suzu, Japan Mayor Masuhiro Izumiya estimated that nearly 90% of houses have been “completely” or “nearly” destroyed by recent earthquakes.

“The situation is devastating, as about 90 percent of houses have been completely or nearly completely destroyed,” he said.

On January 1, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck, followed by 90 aftershocks.

Authorities have declared that 48 individuals died from the earthquake, although the number is expected to increase as rescuers sift through rubble.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that “[v]ery extensive damage has been confirmed, including numerous casualties, building collapses and fires,” adding, “We have to race against time to search for and rescue victims of the disaster.”

According to Yomiuri Japan News, the Self-Defense Forces have gathered 10,000 personnel to conduct rescue operations.

Kishida instructed agencies to “take all possible measures to support the victims by securing supplies such as food, blankets and fuel, providing medical treatment and restoring infrastructure such as electricity and water supply.”

The New York Times reported that 33,000 homes are without power, while an estimated 20,000 homes do not have running water.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said that 57,360 people have left their homes for evacuation facilities.

The White House released a statement on the devastation.

“Jill and I are praying for the people of Japan who have been impacted by the terrible earthquake. My administration is in touch with Japanese officials, and the United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Japanese people,” U.S. President Joe Biden said. “As close Allies, the United States and Japan share a deep bond of friendship that unites our people. Our thoughts are with the Japanese people during this difficult time.”