At least four people were killed in the magnitude-7.4 earthquake in Japan as of 11 a.m. local time on Thursday, according to Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno. Meanwhile, Japanese news broadcasters NHK reported 209 people injured on Thursday afternoon.

In addition to the derailed bullet train, damage to power poles and overpasses was reported along the Tokaido Shinkansen line. It is expected to take a long time to restore the full-line operation.

Japan Post announced on Thursday that 24 post offices in Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures would suspend services. Besides, mail delivery in other areas will also be delayed due to the temporary closure of highways.

(Cover: A house collapses after the magnitude-7.4 strong earthquake hits Kunimi, Fukushima, Japan, March 17, 2022. /CFP)