Post-Quake Fatalities Anticipated to Rise in Central Japan Following Earthquake

A powerful earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, on January 1, 2024, has increased the expected death toll, with 200 pending applications for quake-related fatalities. The current death count exceeds 500, with many attributed to post-disaster causes. Municipalities face challenges in processing applications, leading to delays in financial assistance. A significant percentage of deaths occurred months after the quake, predominantly affecting the elderly.

The recent powerful earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture and its neighboring regions on January 1, 2024, is anticipated to lead to an increase in reported fatalities. Relevant municipal authorities have indicated that an additional 200 death cases are pending review for classification as quake-related, which could raise the current death toll exceeding 500. Most fatalities were in Ishikawa, attributed largely to the aftermath, including those succumbing while in evacuation centers.

Approximately 200 applications for recognition of these deaths as earthquake-related have been submitted and remain to be processed, distinctly separate from the 230 individuals who lost their lives during the quake itself. When recognized as disaster-related, families of the deceased may qualify for condolence grants of up to 5 million yen (approximately $32,000), as stipulated by existing legislation.

Data from the Ishikawa prefectural government reveals that around 20 percent of the roughly 270 certified post-quake fatalities occurred three months or more after the disaster, with the majority of victims aged 70 or above. Contributing factors cited in 115 disclosed cases included overwhelming distress from the earthquake and apprehension about aftershocks, along with interruptions to essential services such as electricity and water, and challenges faced while living in evacuation centers.

In addition to Ishikawa Prefecture, a limited number of post-disaster deaths have been acknowledged in the nearby Niigata and Toyama prefectures. However, the processing rate of applications within municipalities has fallen short, with fewer than 20 cases being evaluated each month, resulting in a significant backlog.

The earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa prefecture has been classified as a significant seismic event, registering a magnitude of 7.6. The resulting devastation has led to a considerable number of deaths, not only immediate casualties during the quake, but also delayed fatalities associated with the disaster’s aftermath. The process for recognizing these deaths as quake-related involves municipal authorities carefully assessing each case, thereby affecting the timely distribution of financial aid to bereaved families. The psychological and infrastructural impacts of the earthquake have notably hindered recovery efforts in the affected areas.

In summary, the aftermath of the January 1 earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture is expected to result in an increase in the reported death toll due to 200 pending cases that require recognition as quake-related fatalities. The ongoing processing challenges have created a backlog for applications, inhibiting the timely assistance to grieving families. It highlights not only the immediate dangers posed by such natural disasters, but also the significant longer-term impact on community recovery and individual health.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net