Earthquake Shakes Japan's West Coast: Consequences and Measures

A devastating earthquake struck the west coast of Japan on New Year's Day, severely affecting Ishikawa Prefecture. The primary hazards stemmed from the strong tremors, which caused significant building damage and landslides. Secondary hazards include infrastructure problems and disruptions to daily life. The impact on infrastructure in Ishikawa Prefecture was severe. Buildings and roads were heavily damaged, significantly impeding movement and evacuations. Residents also faced power outages, complicating recovery efforts. To address the catastrophe, the Japanese government swiftly implemented a series of emergency measures. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to recover those trapped and assist the injured. Coordination between local and national authorities was seamless, and prior investments in earthquake warning systems helped mitigate the consequences. The effectiveness of Japan's preparedness and response to the earthquake was clearly demonstrated: early warning systems, building regulations, and well-planned rescue operations proved effective in reducing damage and losses. However, there remains room for improvement, particularly regarding the rapid restoration of utility services.