On April 16, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit the southwestern city of Kumamoto-shi, Japan. The earthquake came just one day after a 6.2-magnitude earthquake rocked the area. The quakes resulted in more than 40 casualties and 1,400 injuries. Approximately 41,000 people remain in 549 shelters. International Medical Corps is on the ground in Kumamoto, Japan, providing hygiene and relief care, mobilizing support for local communities as part of the Government of Japan's response efforts.
The 7.0-magnitude and 6.2-magnitude earthquakes that rocked the southern areas of Japan resulted in 49 fatalities and another 1,400 people injured. The second larger earthquake caused buildings to collapse, road damage, and mudslides and initially disrupted power supply for 100,000 people and water supply for 400,000 people. With approximately 6,350 homes destroyed or damaged, 41,000 people remain evacuated from their homes in 549 shelters in Kumamoto, Oita, and Nagasaki prefectures.
To accommodate the men, women, and children seeking temporary shelter, International Medical Corps is delivering hygiene and sanitation care at evacuation centers. In coordination with local authorities, teams are addressing the most urgent needs, procuring and delivering latrines and relief materials, such as soap, towels, toothbrushes, and more. Teams are emphasizing support for older populations and those with limited mobility, helping ensure access to sanitation and medical services.
International Medical Corps' approach to help people help themselves is critical to ensure a long-term impact in the communities we serve. In addition to addressing immediate needs to promote hygiene and health-related services, teams will work with local partners to support recovery efforts to build back better and help the survivors of the earthquakes. International Medical Corps will coordinate closely with governmental agencies and other partners to ensure sustainability.
