The Kobe Earthquake

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People all over the world must deal with natural disasters. Different types of disasters occur in different areas. Some areas are particularly likely to suffer earthquakes because of the structure of Earth’s crust. Earth’s crust is broken into large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are constantly moving, because the magma below them is also moving. The plates move too slowly for people to notice most of the time, but once in a while, their movement can lead to a sudden earthquake. Earthquakes can occur when tectonic plates push into each other, slide past each other, or dive under each other. Sometimes they get stuck but still try to move. When enough energy builds up, they break free and the energy is suddenly released through seismic waves. These waves shake the ground and anything on it. The people of Japan must constantly be prepared for earthquakes. Japan is near the boundary of several tectonic plates in motion. There are also nearby faults, or cracks in Earth’s crust. Japan also has several active volcanoes that are affected by the tectonic plates. One of the worst earthquakes to strike Japan in modern times was the Kobe earthquake of 1995. Kobe Earthquake The Kobe earthquake struck Japan on January 17, 1995. The earthquake measured a 6.9 on the Richter Scale. The Richter Scale measures the strength of an earthquake’s vibrations. The Richter Scale does not predict how damaging an earthquake will be, however. The Kobe earthquake lasted for about 20 seconds, but that was more than enough time to make it the worst quake to hit the region in over 70 years.

Earth’s crust is divided into many sections.

The port of Kobe, Japan, has a very large population. This was part of the reason why the 1995 earthquake caused so much destruction.

The Kobe Earthquake

Discovery Education Science © Discovery Communications, LLC

Destruction The Kobe earthquake struck in one of the most populated areas of Japan. Because so many people lived in the area, there were also many buildings. The earthquake killed over 5,000 people and injured over 36,000. People were killed and injured during and after the quake. Earthquakes are not usually finished after the first shaking. Aftershocks can occur for days and continue to damage buildings and structures that were weakened or damaged in the initial quake. Once an earthquake occurs, landslides are also more likely to happen as well. At least 28 people died in a

landslide after the Kobe earthquake. In the end, 310,000 people had to be moved into temporary shelters for their protection. More than 200,000 structures were damaged to some degree, many of them completely destroyed. Water mains, gas lines, and electrical lines were also destroyed. Earthquake Preparedness People in Japan and other earthquake-prone areas prevent some of the damage and injuries by being prepared. Engineers learn from the way past earthquakes like the Kobe quake affected buildings. They use this information when they are designing new buildings to help make them stronger and more resistant to damage. Buildings that are made from materials that move in certain ways with the vibrations are more likely to survive. Buildings are also designed so that they are less likely to fully collapse when damaged, thus protecting people both in and around the building. Scientists continually monitor waves moving through Earth’s crust. They can detect when a large earthquake happens and quickly warn people in nearby areas. Early warning is especially crucial when large earthquakes happen underwater. Underwater earthquakes can lead to tsunamis, large, powerful waves that will sweep away anything

The danger isn’t over when an earthquake ends. Fires, power outages, landslides, and tsunamis can be caused by the seismic waves.

A seismograph is a tool scientists use to detect and monitor seismic waves in Earth’s crust.

The Kobe Earthquake

Discovery Education Science © Discovery Communications, LLC

in their path. These waves can travel for miles on land, causing much destruction and loss of life if people cannot reach higher ground in time. Currently, warning systems can give people about twenty seconds’ warning before an earthquake strikes. While this is not a lot of time, it is enough for many to move to the safest areas nearby to be ready. Fast-moving trains and vehicles can be brought to safe stops. Scientists are working on ways to predict earthquakes before they happen, but the technology is not available yet.

Individuals can be better prepared for disasters as well. Schools, businesses, and families can practice earthquake drills. Just like with a fire drill at school, people quickly move to safer areas. People who have practiced drills know what to do during an emergency.

Earthquake kits of useful supplies can help people get through the earthquake aftermath when there might not be power or running water. Kits can include first aid supplies, drinking water, nonperishable food, and battery-powered flashlights and radios to keep informed of the latest crisis details. Earthquakes cannot be predicted, and they cannot be prevented. Being prepared is the best bet to survive any natural disaster.

Creating an emergency kit of useful supplies is a good way to prepare for any natural disaster, no matter where you live.