The death toll from the January 2024 earthquake in Ishikawa, Japan, is projected to rise by an estimated 200 as municipalities review pending applications for disaster-related deaths. Over 500 fatalities have been reported, primarily from post-quake complications. Most victims are elderly and suffered distress post-event, prompting calls for expedited review of applications to facilitate bereavement support.
In the aftermath of the magnitude-7.6 earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year’s Day 2024, there is a troubling expectation for the death toll to increase significantly. Municipal authorities have indicated that an additional 200 fatalities are pending review for recognition as related to the earthquake. This raises concerns as the existing death count has already surpassed 500, with many victims being linked to the consequences of the natural disaster rather than immediate casualties during the quake itself.
Approximately 230 individuals lost their lives during the earthquake, primarily due to collapsing structures, while over 270 post-quake fatalities have been certified in Ishikawa Prefecture. Notably, 20% of these involved individuals succumbed to complications or distress occurring three months or more after the disaster, with a large proportion being elderly. Reports reveal that distress from the earthquake and fears of aftershocks were notably cited as contributing factors in nearly 89 cases. Municipalities have struggled with processing these applications, handling fewer than 20 cases per month, thereby creating a significant backlog.
As authorities continue their reviews, families of deceased individuals recognized as disaster-related may receive compensation under humanitarian provisions, up to 5 million yen ($32,000). Additionally, the recognition of post-disaster deaths extends beyond Ishikawa, affecting cases in Niigata and Toyama prefectures as well. Urgent action and support are required to address the growing fatalities and the ramifications for affected residents.
The earthquake that hit Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan on New Year’s Day 2024 is part of a series of seismic events that have impacted the region, particularly the Noto Peninsula. The initial earthquake registered a magnitude of 7.6, causing widespread devastation and resulting in a considerable death toll. The reporting indicates that while some fatalities occurred instantly during the quake, a significant number of deaths have been attributed to the prolonged effects of the disaster, including health deterioration among evacuees and those who lost basic services such as electricity and water. Applications for recognition of these deaths as disaster-related are processed by local municipalities, but a backlog has emerged, leaving many families awaiting acknowledgment and potential financial support.
In conclusion, the ongoing review of fatalities related to the January 2024 earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture reveals a complex and concerning situation. With an expectation of over 200 additional deaths potentially being classified as earthquake-related, the current death toll may rise beyond 500. This situation highlights the long-term impacts of natural disasters on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, and emphasizes the need for expedited processing of applications to provide necessary support to affected families.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
