Japan continues to grapple with the aftermath of a significant earthquake that struck earlier this month. Renowned for its history of natural disasters, Japan stands out as one of the world's most well-prepared countries for such emergencies. Its advanced alert systems, stringent building codes, and a populace educated and ready for such events have all contributed to its resilience.
The recent earthquake, measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale, hit the Noto Peninsula in central Japan on January 1, causing buildings to shake violently, triggering landslides, fires, and even reshaping the coastline to create new beaches. Despite the scale of the quake, the death toll remains remarkably low, with only 94 reported fatalities as of Friday, according to Reuters.
This is in stark contrast to previous disasters in other countries. For instance, earthquakes of similar magnitude in Turkey and Syria last year resulted in at least 56,000 deaths, while in Haiti in 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks claimed up to 300,000 lives. Similarly, in 2005, a 7.6 magnitude quake claimed at least 79,000 lives in Pakistan.
Japan's ability to minimize casualties can be attributed to its long-standing preparedness efforts. Following World War II, Japan enacted the Disaster Countermeasures Basic Act in 1961, significantly increasing its investment and planning for earthquakes and floods. The country now boasts some of the strictest building codes globally, with engineers focusing on constructing quake-resilient buildings.
For instance, new buildings are designed to sway with the earthquake's movement rather than resisting it, and older structures have been retrofitted to withstand disasters better. Furthermore, Japan conducts regular drills and simulations to test its readiness, and the government emphasizes the importance of preparedness to its citizens.
Japan's experience with earthquakes has also led to the development of advanced warning systems, such as the Earthquake Early Warning System (EEWS), which can provide a few seconds to a few minutes of warning before a quake hits. These systems are crucial for ensuring the safety of its citizens, especially in densely populated areas.
Despite these preparations, there are still challenges. The recent earthquake has left over 200 people unaccounted for, and 30 villages remain inaccessible. In some areas, such as Wajima city, there are shortages of food and water for evacuees. However, experts agree that Japan's proactive approach to disaster preparedness has been key to minimizing the impact of such events and saving lives.