Kobe - Japan Earthquake

History

Background 17 th January am local time 7.2 magnitude on the Richter scale Lasted 20 seconds Philippine plate is being subducted underneath the Eurasian plate at 10cm per year

Economic Factors Pre earthquake As it is an MEDC - new buildings are built to withstand earthquakes. Post earthquake It cost £100 billion of damage (to roads, houses, factories and infrastructure (gas, electric, water, sewage systems, phone cables.) 3%-5% of japans industry located in and around Kobe. 120 out of 150 quays destroyed. 130km section of bullet train closed.

Social Factors Pre earthquake Very densely populated area (10 million residents) Majority not living in earthquake proof buildings. Post earthquake Over 5,000 people died, and 300,000+ people made homeless. -2°C temperatures that winter.

Political Factors Pre earthquake Earthquake drills compulsory in schools Post earthquake New laws were passed to make buildings and transport structures even more earthquake proof.

Recovery What’s this??