On January 7, 2024, Shigeru Sakaguchi, Mayor of Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, said at a meeting of the Ishikawa Prefecture Disaster Response Headquarters that there were signs of a possible large-scale landslide in Wajima City, and that evacuation instructions had been issued to local residents.
Landslide hazards
Landslide refers to a geological disaster in which the soil and rock body on the hillside slides along a certain sliding surface due to gravity. Landslides have the characteristics of strong destructive power, wide range and serious consequences, which can cause casualties, property losses and environmental damage.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the area around Wajima City is expected to receive heavy rainfall in the near future. Heavy rainfall and complex geological conditions can easily cause landslides.
Risk of landslides in Wajima City
Wajima City is located in the northern part of Japan, in a mountainous area with complex geological conditions that are prone to landslides. The city has experienced landslides in 2008, 2013 and 2015, causing casualties and property damage.
According to a survey by Wajima City Government, there are more than 20 areas in the city with a high risk of landslides, including residential areas, roads, railways, and other important facilities.
Wajima City Government's response
Wajima City Government has taken a series of countermeasures, including:
- issuing evacuation instructions to local residents;
- Organize emergency personnel to monitor key areas;
- Reserve emergency supplies;
- Strengthen publicity and education to raise residents' awareness of disaster prevention.
Be alert to the threat of natural disasters
The landslide incident in Wajima City once again reminds us that the threat of natural disasters is everywhere and must be taken seriously. Governments at all levels should strengthen the prevention and control of natural disasters, improve emergency response plans, improve emergency response capabilities, and earnestly ensure the safety of people's lives and property.
Personal precautions
In mountainous areas, the public should pay attention to the following precautions:
- Understand the local geology and avoid landslide-prone areas;
- Pay attention to the weather forecast and try to go out as much as possible when there is heavy rainfall;
- If you notice signs of a landslide, evacuate to safety immediately.