A magnitude-6.5 foreshock struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Southern Japan on 14 April 2016. This was followed by a 7.3 magnitude earthquake on 16 April. Aftershock tremors continue to be felt around Kumamoto, as many as 1,464 times as of 11 am, 16 May. 68 people have been confirmed dead, 1,671 people injured and 10,437 people have been evacuated in Kumamoto and Oita prefecture. Also, 2,848 houses have been destroyed and over 40,000 damaged by the quake.
To rescue people from the disaster, local governments dispatched about 4,300 fire defense rescue teams consisting of 16,000 members as well as the Self Defense Forces and police. At present, we are trying our best to recover from the disaster. Over 1,400 public officers from various local governments are working towards recovery by repairing water supply channels and roads, estimating and certifying the damage of houses and supporting the tasks of affected local governments.
Fortunately, the recovery is going fast and smooth. Schools, which were used as shelters, have been reopened from 11 May and students are back in class and doing their extracurricular activities. Highways and bullet trains (Shinkansen) are back in service and earthquake refugees are now being arranged placements in available public houses or temporary housing. However, some roads and railways are still out of service.
I deeply appreciate the kindness of Australians and New Zealanders in showing support for Kumamoto during these tough times. We received many heart-warming messages from both countries and we know many people are supporting and donating to Kumamoto. It may take a long time to fully recover but please continue to watch over the people of Kumamoto.
Thank you very much again.
Katsunori Kamibo
Director