Post-Quake Deaths in Central Japan Anticipated to Rise as Recognition Applications Backlog Grows

The death toll from the earthquake that hit Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year’s Day 2024 is expected to increase as over 200 deaths await disaster recognition. Currently, more than 500 fatalities have been reported, with most occurring in the aftermath, particularly in evacuation centers. Processing delays have led to a backlog in identifying post-disaster deaths, leading to significant concerns among local authorities and families seeking assistance.

Following the devastating earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture in central Japan on New Year’s Day of 2024, fatalities related to the disaster are anticipated to increase significantly. Municipal authorities indicate that there are over 200 pending death applications awaiting recognition as quake-related, contributing to an already high death toll that has surpassed 500. Most fatalities have occurred in Ishikawa, many associated with the aftermath of the disaster, particularly within evacuation centers.

Approximately 270 fatalities classified as post-quake deaths were recorded in Ishikawa, where over 20 percent of these deaths transpired three months or more after the earthquake. Many of the victims are elderly individuals, predominantly aged 70 and older. Factors leading to these post-disaster fatalities primarily include distress following the earthquake and the fear of aftershocks, along with disrupted essential services such as electricity and water supply, and the challenges of living in evacuation centers.

Among the over 230 immediate fatalities, which include individuals trapped during the quake, the recognition process for disaster-related deaths is crucial, as families may receive up to 5 million yen ($32,000) once their loved ones’ deaths are classified as such. Unfortunately, municipalities have struggled to process these applications efficiently, averaging fewer than 20 per month, resulting in a significant backlog.

On January 1, 2024, a powerful earthquake measured at magnitude 7.6 struck the Noto Peninsula, causing widespread devastation and loss of life in Ishikawa Prefecture and neighboring regions. The disaster has had lasting repercussions in the affected areas, particularly reflecting in the delayed recognition of post-quake fatalities. The bureaucratic process for classifying these deaths has become a point of concern among local authorities and bereaved families, given the substantial financial relief provided under disaster grant laws.

The ongoing assessment of post-quake fatalities in Ishikawa Prefecture highlights the significant toll of the January 2024 earthquake. With over 500 confirmed deaths and an additional 200 applications pending for recognition, the impact of the disaster continues to resonate within the community. The challenges faced in processing these cases underline the urgency for efficient disaster management policies to support affected families adequately.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net