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This is an archived USAID document retained on this web site as a matter of public record.
USAID to Provide Disaster Assistance to Japan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2004
2004-000
Press Office: 202-712-4320
Public Information: 202-712-4810
www.usaid.gov
Contact: USAID Press Office
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced it will provide disaster assistance funds through the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo to the Japanese Red Cross Society for the purchase and distribution of emergency relief supplies.
On October 23, 2004, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck Niigata Prefecture located approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. A series of strong aftershocks followed from October 23 to 25, including eight earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 5.2. The earthquakes killed 24 people, injured more than 2,100 others, and forced an estimated 85,000 people to evacuate to shelters. The tremors also produced landslides; damaged and destroyed homes, roads, and railroads; and cut off power, water, gas, and telecommunications services to tens of thousands of houses. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, additional seismic activity remains a possibility.
On October 25, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Howard H. Baker declared a disaster due to the damage caused by the earthquakes. USAID Regional Advisors in Asia and Washington continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide additional updates as necessary.
Please visit our website for more information on USAID visit: http://www.usaid.gov.
The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.
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