This is the 4872nd most frequent Japanese word.
爪痕
Scar; trace of damage or impact.
In this sentence, '爪痕' (tsumeato) metaphorically represents the physical destruction or impact left by the earthquake.
彼はその地震の爪痕を見て驚きました。
He was astonished when he saw the traces of the earthquake.
Here, '爪痕' is used figuratively to signify a lasting emotional mark or influence caused by the event.
その出来事は彼の心に深い爪痕を残しました。
That event left a deep emotional scar on him.
In this context, '爪痕' represents the enduring marks or remnants left by war on the environment.