Preprint Communication Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Field Report of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake―Current Status and Challenges of Evacuation Centers in Wajima City

Version 1 : Received: 29 January 2024 / Approved: 29 January 2024 / Online: 29 January 2024 (14:14:40 CET)
Version 2 : Received: 22 March 2024 / Approved: 22 March 2024 / Online: 22 March 2024 (17:10:44 CET)

How to cite: Itatani, T.; Kojima, M.; Tanaka, J.; Horike, R. Field Report of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake―Current Status and Challenges of Evacuation Centers in Wajima City. Preprints 2024, 2024012042. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.2042.v1 Itatani, T.; Kojima, M.; Tanaka, J.; Horike, R. Field Report of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake―Current Status and Challenges of Evacuation Centers in Wajima City. Preprints 2024, 2024012042. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.2042.v1

Abstract

On January 1, 2024, a huge earthquake occurred in Noto region, Japan. Many buildings collapsed by the violent shaking. Electricity and water supplies were cut off, and communication was disrupted. Immediately after the earthquake, we visited Noto, and conducted disaster relief activities. This report integrates and discusses the results of site visits, information broadcasts by public institutions, and previous research. Evacuation centers lacked water and proper sanitation, leading to health issues, including infectious diseases. Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT) were delayed in implementing infection control measures. Isolated evacuation centers faced communication and supply challenges. Infrastructure restoration, power supply, and toilet facilities at evacuation centers were delayed due to geographical challenges. lack of intervention by medical professionals in evacuation centers were because DMAT was forced to invest manpower in rescue operations. It is important to have a team that can determine and carry out the necessary activities on site, even without instructions from the DMAT. Under these circumstances, it is important for evacuees to operate the evacuation centers autonomously. There are concerns that evacuation centers could pose health risks if people stay in these centers for long periods. We hope that medical professionals intervene as soon as possible.

Keywords

Disaster; earthquake; seismic emergency; evacuation; seafloor uplift

Subject

Public Health and Healthcare, Public Health and Health Services

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