By Sarah Maraschky | Communications Associate
The 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in Japan’s western Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year’s Day is the deadliest since the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. As of January 4, more than 80 people were confirmed dead, and tens of thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes. The situation remains volatile; running water, electricity, and communications, including cell and internet service, are unavailable in many areas. Overall, the true extent of damage remains challenging to assess.
As of January 4, 23 members of Peace Winds’ airborne search-and-rescue team, ARROWS, are on the ground aiding survivors with the help of helicopters and search-and-rescue dogs. The emergency response team is currently based in Suzu City where 7,400 people out of a population of 14,000 are living in evacuation centers. Others are sleeping in cars, greenhouses, and other temporary places.
More than 72 hours have passed since the earthquake struck, unfortunately marking a grim milestone for search-and-rescue efforts. The probability of survival drops dramatically after this point. As the situation progresses, ARROWS’ focus is turning to medical care and operational support at evacuation centers in and around Suzu City. ARROWS teams are working to airlift patients via helicopter, make house calls for elderly and disabled residents, operate a temporary clinic, and perform health checks for survivors living in evacuation centers.
In addition to losing homes, losing loved ones, and facing injuries, Japan’s earthquake survivors are challenged with worsening sanitary conditions. Peace Winds is working to deliver emergency supplies to Suzu City, including food, masks, hygiene items, and baby items. Large trucks are unable to reach the area due to damaged roads, so Peace Winds has sent supplies via ship which will arrive in Suzu Port.
ARROWS will continue to strengthen support for earthquake survivors in the Noto Peninsula as needs shift from short-term relief to long-term recovery. New donations to Peace Winds’ “Japan Disaster: Relief and Recovery” project will go toward relief and recovery activities in Ishikawa Prefecture as well as broader disaster preparedness efforts. We will continue to bring updates as we are able, and we thank you for your continued support which makes our work possible.
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