Kishida Orders Rescue of Quake Victims before 72-hour Window Closes

The Yomiuri Shimbun

16:22 JST, January 4, 2024

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered Thursday that all efforts be made to rescue victims of the quake that rocked Ishikawa Prefecture and surrounding areas, as the end of a 72-hour rescue window approached.

“Until those 72 hours crucial for saving lives pass, I urge you to do your utmost to save and rescue as many people as possible with everything you have on the ground,” Kishida said at an Emergency Headquarters meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Survival rates begin to drop off 72 hours after a quake. That rescue window will close Thursday evening.

Kishida also mentioned support for the daily needs of those affected by the temblor, saying, “The government will mobilize all its resources, with the determination to do everything possible to support those affected while accurately assessing their needs.”

He urged that roads be quickly repaired to allow for smooth delivery of food, blankets and other supplies to evacuation centers.

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