Thousands of Medical and Welfare Facilities at Risk in Japan

A new analysis reveals that approximately 2,300 medical and 7,300 welfare facilities are at risk of flooding from a tsunami triggered by the anticipated Nankai Trough megaquake. This includes 12 disaster base hospitals. The government updated its Nankai Trough earthquake damage projections, estimating a maximum flood area of 1,151.5 square kilometers.

Analysis shows that 2,347 medical facilities in Tokyo and 20 other prefectures are in flood risk zones. A larger number of welfare facilities are also at risk. The Cabinet Office states that being caught in tsunami waters of 30 cm or higher is life-threatening.

The health ministry requires all medical institutions to be prepared. The government mandates evacuation plans for facilities in flood zones. Nanko Hospital in Osaka is one such institution, with plans to move patients to higher floors.