MEDC Earthquake: Kobe, Japan 1995 (CS)

Question 1

Knowledge

Answer 1

-£80m investment in earthquake prediction
-Japanese authorities failed to recognise precursors:
>Increased levels of radon gas (7th Jan)
>high levels of electro-magnetic emissions
>4 minor foreshocks hours prior

HOWEVER

-1981: New building codes introduced, officials joined knowledge of geological threat and that of modern safe structures; e.g. Akushi Bridge and Kansai Airport survived.

Question 2

Perception (good)

Answer 2

-High level of awareness amongst authorities and public for example:
>Building codes 1981
>Disaster Prevention Day (mass drill, review of emergency procedures) 1st Sept annually
>Emergency earthquake kits available in shops
advice published on securing heavy domestic appliances.

Question 3

Perception (bad)

Answer 3

• Only 3% of Kobe had earthquake insurance
• Modern buildings survived, but 6,400 people died from old tiled roof buildings “pancaking”
• People became complacent. As a result many panicked and ignored evac routes.

Question 4

Stage of Development (good)

Answer 4

-Japan’s stage of development helped it create a safe environment prior and to respond well afterward:

> $4.8 trillion GDP, GDPpc of $38,000. The £70 billion rebuild cost could be met easily.
70% of businesses open a year later
Gas/electricity/water/sewage fixed in 4 months
Japan could invest in stronger construction materials to build flexible structure (Kansai airport for example)

Question 5

What was the event?

Answer 5

Kobe, Japan 17th January 1995, magnitude 7.2