Hazards: Kobe Flashcards
(16 cards)
What was the magnitude of the Kobe earthquake?
7.2 on the Richter scale
The earthquake hit on 17th January 1995.
What was the depth of the Kobe earthquake?
16 km
This depth contributed to the severity of the earthquake’s impact.
How many deaths resulted from the Kobe earthquake?
6,400 deaths
The earthquake caused significant loss of life.
What was the estimated economic damage caused by the Kobe earthquake?
$100 billion
This highlights the extensive impact on the economy.
How many people were displaced due to the Kobe earthquake?
300,000 people
Displacement was a major consequence of the disaster.
What geological feature is Kobe located near?
Nankai Trough
This area is where the Philippine plate is subducting below the Eurasian plate.
What caused severe liquefaction during the Kobe earthquake?
Reclaimed land in Port Island and Rokko Island
Liquefaction led to significant sinking of buildings and infrastructure.
What was a major human factor contributing to the severity of the Kobe earthquake’s impact?
Collapse of older, wooden buildings
Despite strict building codes, many older structures were vulnerable.
What critical infrastructure was disrupted during the Kobe earthquake?
Gas, water and electricity supplies
This disruption exacerbated the disaster’s effects on residents.
What was a consequence of Japan’s slow response to international aid requests?
Delayed medical assistance
Many residents suffered due to the slow deployment of help.
What event cut off emergency access during the Kobe earthquake?
Toppling of the Hanshin Expressway
This major transport route’s collapse hindered rescue efforts.
What adaptation was made to building codes after the Kobe earthquake?
Buildings had to be earthquake-resistant
New construction included shock absorbers and flexible steel frames.
What community initiative was introduced after the earthquake?
Community-based disaster preparedness programs
These programs aimed to improve public awareness and readiness.
What technology was installed to improve earthquake detection after the Kobe earthquake?
Seismometers
Faster detection of earthquakes helps in disaster response.
What hazard risks does Kobe face due to its geographical location?
Moderate tsunami and landslide risks
These risks are significant due to Kobe’s location in Osaka Bay.
Fill in the blank: Kobe has tsunami sea walls and coastal evacuation plans, although a very large tsunami could _______.
overwhelm these measures
Preparedness measures are in place, but limitations exist.
