Earthquake causes severe damage to northern tip of Noto Peninsula

Japanese rescuers scrambled to search for survivors on Wednesday as authorities warned of landslides from heavy rain after a powerful earthquake. The Noto Peninsula was most severely hit, with buildings ravaged by fire and houses flattened in several towns.

Many people were in shelters, and at least 200 buildings had collapsed, with the number expected to rise, the government said.Prime Minister Kishida held an emergency task force meeting, and said"More than 40 hours have passed since the disaster, a lot of information about people in need of rescue have received and there are people waiting for help".Food and emergency supplies have arrived in the region, but blocked or damaged roads have slowed their delivery to communities.-