2025 Volume 30 Issue 3 Pages 113-119
In the event of the Nankai Trough Earthquake in western Japan, Wakayama Prefecture is predicted to experience the highest number of human casualties in western Japan. Therefore, disaster medical drills have been repeatedly conducted based on the assumption that the Nankai Trough Earthquake will occur. These drills have revealed the characteristics and challenges of such a disaster in Wakayama Prefecture. The transportation network in Wakayama Prefecture is concentrated in coastal areas, and the southern part of the Kii Peninsula will be isolated immediately after the disaster. Therefore, an air transport system is essential during the acute phase of disasters. Wakayama Prefecture has planned and established five air transport bases in the prefecture gradually for this reason. Hospitals in the northern part of the prefecture must also provide care for sick and injured patients from the southern part. However, it was found that many hospitals have not been reinforced against earthquakes and have less than 24 hours of operation time for private power generation. While it is desirable to improve the functions of all hospitals, it is first necessary for disaster-based hospitals to take the initiative to expand their functions and support the community. As a result, Wakayama Prefecture as a whole needs to be prepared to endure on its own until support from outside the prefecture arrives.
