Introduction
In September 2023, the Noto Peninsula in Japan faced devastating flooding once again, severely impacting communities still recovering from last year’s typhoon. This article delves into the recent flooding in Ishikawa Prefecture, focusing on Suzu City and the challenges residents face within temporary housing.
The Background of Flooding in Noto
Following the Noto Peninsula earthquake on January 1, 2022, the region has been unfortunately prone to disasters. In September 2022, a line of heavy rainfall resulted in river flooding and landslides, leading to fatalities and extensive damage. A total of 19 lives were lost due to disasters related to the earthquake and subsequent heavy rains, which created a challenging environment for those who were already suffering from the initial disaster.
Recent Flooding Events
Last month’s heavy rain (October 10-11, 2023) caused significant flooding in temporary housing complexes built for earthquake victims in Suzu City. The impacts were particularly severe in the Kamimoto Town No. 2 complex, where all 30 units suffered flooding exceeding floor levels after a nearby river overflowed its banks. Despite previous flood-prevention measures, including the installation of 59 large sandbags, the rain was beyond foreseen levels, leading to renewed flooding.
Community Reactions and Responses
Residents, like a 74-year-old woman from Kamimoto Town, described knee-deep water flooding their homes and the perilous evacuation conditions toward the adjacent gymnasium. Many expressed fear and anxiety with each rain, stressing the need for better disaster preparedness and community support.
Residents’ concerns are echoed by a 77-year-old man who questioned the sufficiency of the current sandbag measures and sought collective solutions to ensure safety in Noto and Suzu. His sentiment underscores a broader desire for proactive disaster planning and community involvement.
Expert Insights on Flood Risks
Professor Motoyuki Ushiyama from Shizuoka University highlights the geographical vulnerabilities of the temporary housing sites, which are in flood-prone areas. He explains that while large sandbags have been used to create makeshift levees, they might not withstand unexpected downpours. He emphasizes that residents and authorities should assume a future flood risk exists, given their geographical context.
Recovering from Previous Disasters
Takeo Dochu, a 75-year-old resident of Wajima City, recalls the devastation from last year’s heavy rains that resulted in his home being inundated with over a meter of water. As he continues to live in temporary housing while returning to work on his home, the struggle of recovery remains evident. The lack of water and difficulties in agricultural activities amplify the challenges he faces as he emotionally reconnects with his lifelong home.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead
The recent flooding in Noto serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the vulnerability of communities. With professionals calling for continuous readiness and community involvement, the journey toward recovery and future preparedness must embrace both lessons learned and the resilience of those affected. As Noto builds its future, prioritizing robust disaster response plans and community cooperation will be crucial in mitigating similar risks in the years to come.
