Japan's Earthquake Preparedness Measures Tested as Noto Peninsula Experiences Century's Strongest Quake

Despite low death toll, the disaster highlights vulnerability of rural and ageing communities, and raises concerns over potential 'megaquake'.

Japan's Noto Peninsula experienced its most powerful earthquake in a century on January 1, 2024, with a magnitude of 7.6, resulting in 94 deaths and leaving over 200 people unaccounted for.
Despite the destruction, Japan's death toll is remarkably low compared to similar magnitude earthquakes in other countries, thanks to its sophisticated alert system, strict building codes, and a culture of preparedness.
However, the earthquake highlighted the gap in disaster readiness between urban and rural areas, with older, depopulated communities like Wajima and Suzu suffering more damage and casualties.
Many of the destroyed homes were built before 1981 and did not meet current stringent design codes, and their older residents were less likely to invest in reinforcing their ageing houses.
Experts warn of a potential 'megaquake' in the next four decades, with a 70% chance of a massive earthquake hitting the Tokyo metropolitan area, potentially causing up to 23,000 deaths and significant economic damage.