TOKYO, JAPAN – Scenes of devastation unfolded in Ishikawa prefecture this week following a 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan’s western coast. The full extent of the damage is still unknown, with at least 270 homes destroyed. However, authorities anticipate the final figure to be much higher. The destruction does not account for Suzu or Wajima, a city with a population of over 27,000, where approximately 200 buildings were reported to have burned down.
While the impact of the earthquake is significant, experts believe that Ishikawa may have fared relatively well compared to similar seismic events in other parts of the world. Robert Geller, professor emeritus of seismology at the University of Tokyo, noted that modern buildings in Ishikawa appeared to have withstood the quake better than older houses with heavy clay tile roofs.
The resilience of Japanese architecture against earthquakes is rooted in centuries of knowledge and innovation. Traditional wooden pagodas, such as the 180-foot tall pagoda at the Toji temple near Kyoto, have a remarkable survival rate compared to modern structures. These pagodas embrace flexibility as a means of countering the force of tremors. Central pillars made from tree trunks provide the necessary bend and flex, while interlocking joints and loose brackets ensure stability.
Japan’s commitment to seismic resilience extends beyond pagodas to everyday buildings. The country’s architecture schools prioritize the integration of design and structural engineering, a distinction that sets them apart. Lessons learned from past earthquakes have led to continuous updates in building regulations, ensuring that structures adhere to strict earthquake-resistant standards.
Innovations in seismic design continue to emerge in Japan. The use of advanced computer modeling allows for the simulation of earthquake conditions and the subsequent construction of buildings to withstand such events. Additionally, renowned Japanese architects have explored alternative materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) to transform high-rise construction.
However, the effectiveness of these measures can only be known in the event of a catastrophic earthquake. There is an ongoing concern among engineers and seismologists about the impact of a large earthquake directly hitting cities like Tokyo, which has a 70% chance of occurring in the next 30 years. While Tokyo is believed to be reasonably safe, uncertainty remains until the next significant earthquake happens.
In the aftermath of the earthquake in Ishikawa prefecture, the focus now shifts to assessing the extent of the damage and providing support to affected communities. The disaster serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing efforts to protect cities and towns from the devastating consequences of seismic events.