Memorial for New Year’s earthquake, heavy rains held in NotoーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Noto Peninsula Earthquake & Heavy Rain Disaster – Two-Year Remembrance & Recovery Efforts

Key Concepts:

• Noto Peninsula Earthquake (January 1, 2024): Magnitude 7.6 earthquake impacting Ishikawa, Toyama, and Nigata prefectures.
• Okunoto Heavy Rains (September 2024): Torrential rains causing flooding and landslides in the northern Noto Peninsula, exacerbating existing damage.
• Disaster-Related Deaths: Deaths occurring after the initial earthquake due to health conditions worsened by the disaster’s aftermath.
• Creative Reconstruction (創造的な復興 – sōzō-tekina fukkō): A holistic approach to recovery focusing not just on rebuilding infrastructure, but also on revitalizing communities and livelihoods.
• Soil Liquefaction: A phenomenon where saturated soil temporarily loses strength and stiffness in response to an applied stress, often during earthquakes, leading to building collapse.
• Wakura Onsen Resort: A significant hot spring resort area in the Noto Peninsula undergoing reconstruction efforts.

1. Disaster Overview & Impact

The Noto Peninsula in Japan experienced two major disasters in 2024: a magnitude 7.6 earthquake on January 1st and heavy rains in September. The earthquake resulted in 698 confirmed deaths across Ishikawa, Toyama, and Nigata prefectures, with 470 officially recognized as disaster-related (including deaths due to health complications following the quake). This number continues to rise. Damage assessments by the Cabinet Office indicate over 165,000 houses were damaged across 11 prefectures, with Ishikawa accounting for 70% of this figure. As of January 1st, 2026, over 17,000 people in Ishikawa Prefecture remain in temporary government housing. The Okunoto heavy rains further compounded the devastation, causing 20 additional fatalities, particularly impacting those already affected by the earthquake.

2. Socio-Economic Consequences & Population Decline

The disasters have triggered a noticeable population decline in affected areas. Ishikawa Prefecture estimates a 13% decrease in the Okunoto region since the earthquake. This demographic shift is attributed to families relocating for safety and economic opportunities. The loss of community spaces, particularly for children, is a significant concern, contributing to the outmigration of young families. The number of elementary and junior high school students has dropped by approximately 25% in two years.

3. Memorial Ceremony & Official Statements

A memorial ceremony was held on January 1st, 2026, attended by approximately 350 people, including bereaved family members and local mayors. Key figures delivered addresses:

• Ishikawa Governor Hiroshi: Pledged a commitment to “creative reconstruction” through collaboration between national and local governments, the private sector, and the people of Noto. He expressed hope for the return of “hope and peace” to the region.
• Disaster Management Minister Akamajiro: Offered condolences on behalf of the government and acknowledged the “deep regrets” and “profound sorrow” caused by the disasters. He highlighted the government’s commitment to recovery, including new public housing, restoration of farming and fishing areas, and reconstruction of Wajima lacquerware workshops and shopping streets. He announced revisions to the Disaster Relief Act and Basic Act on Disaster Management, and accelerated plans to launch a new disaster management agency.
• Former Prime Minister Kumio: Emphasized the government’s initial response and ongoing support for the region. He reported that 90% of damaged buildings have been demolished using public funds and highlighted efforts to address issues like soil liquefaction and rebuild childcare centers. He also mentioned the formation of a Diet members’ group focused on earthquake measures based on local experiences.

4. Bereaved Family Representative’s Testimony

A representative from Wajima City, Nakayama, shared a deeply personal account of loss. He lost his sister in the Okunoto heavy rains after their home was destroyed by the earthquake. He spoke of the overwhelming grief and regret, and found solace in volunteering as a radio host for a local disaster response radio station, aiming to prevent others from experiencing similar loss. He emphasized the importance of community connection and rebuilding not just infrastructure, but also the social fabric of the region.

5. Reconstruction Initiatives & Community Support

Several reconstruction initiatives are underway:

• Public Housing: Construction of new public housing is in progress.
• Economic Recovery: Efforts are focused on restoring farming and fishing industries, and rebuilding local businesses like Wajima lacquerware workshops.
• Wakura Onsen Resort: A special measure has been implemented to expedite the reconstruction of the Wakura Onsen resort.
• Community Spaces: A new indoor playground has been established in Suzu City to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, addressing the loss of recreational spaces due to temporary shelters. This initiative, led by Hashimoto Shoko and her nonprofit, aims to encourage families to remain in the region.

6. Lessons Learned & Future Disaster Management

The government is incorporating lessons learned from these disasters into revised disaster relief legislation and the development of a new disaster management agency. The focus is on strengthening welfare support, fostering public-private partnerships, and prioritizing human life and dignity in disaster preparedness and response.

7. Data & Statistics

• Earthquake Magnitude: 7.6
• Total Deaths (Earthquake & Rains): Over 700
• Disaster-Related Deaths (Earthquake): 698 (and rising)
• Houses Damaged: Over 165,000 (70% in Ishikawa)
• People in Temporary Housing (Ishikawa): Over 17,000
• Population Decline (Okunoto): 13%
• Decline in School Enrollment: Approximately 25% (elementary & junior high)
• Buildings Demolished (Public Funds): 90%

Conclusion:

The Noto Peninsula continues to grapple with the long-term consequences of the 2024 earthquake and heavy rains. While reconstruction efforts are underway, significant challenges remain, including population decline, economic recovery, and the emotional toll on survivors. The commitment to “creative reconstruction” – a holistic approach that prioritizes community well-being and incorporates lessons learned – is crucial for the region’s future. The emphasis on strengthening disaster management systems and fostering resilience will be vital in mitigating the impact of future disasters. The stories of loss and resilience shared during the memorial ceremony underscore the importance of remembering the victims and supporting the ongoing recovery efforts.