Emergency Support Team Deployed for Kumamoto Earthquake Relief Efforts

Emergency Response to the Kumamoto Earthquake

On July 28, 2026, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck the Kumamoto region in Japan, prompting an immediate mobilization of the emergency support team led by Peace Winds Japan. Founded and directed by Kenjo Onishi, Peace Winds operates a disaster relief initiative called the 'Flying Medical Rescue Team ARROWS'. This dedicated team is focused on providing critical medical assistance and support following natural disasters.

Team Deployment

The first group of responders departed from their headquarters in Jinseki-kogen, Hiroshima, at 5:30 PM on the same day. This team utilized both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to reach the affected areas swiftly. Included in this mission were Dr. Mototaka Inaba, leaders of the rescue effort, alongside four nurses, three coordinators, a disaster rescue dog team, and a pet disaster preparedness team which was scheduled to depart the following morning.

Having arrived at the site around 2 AM, Dr. Inaba and his crew promptly began medical support operations. The team’s activities included assessing the condition of stranded individuals in the Ion Mall Kumamoto, where many sought refuge in the aftermath of the quake.

Ongoing Support and Collaboration

In collaboration with local fire departments, rescue operations were conducted to locate and assist those still in need. The team is also extending support to local hospitals' emergency departments. Moving forward, they aim to continue providing medical assistance in conjunction with evaluating the needs of the community, including services to evacuation sites.

Composition of the Emergency Support Team

- Doctors: 1
- Nurses: 4
- Coordinators: 3
- Disaster Rescue Dog Handlers: 1
- Additional Team Members: Anticipated arrival of 9 new members, including emergency responders and rescue teams, is planned, while a helicopter team remains on standby at the airport.

As the situation evolves, there remains a potential for increasing the number of team members according to the local requirements. This concerted effort emphasizes the urgency in saving lives, drawing on the wealth of knowledge and experience gained from previous disaster responses.

Call for Support

Peace Winds Japan, through its dedicated team, is committed to delivering essential help where it is most needed as rapidly as possible, drawing upon extensive training and prior experiences in disaster-affected areas. The organization appreciates every form of support from the public, whether it be financial donations or spreading awareness of their cause.

For further details on the ongoing activities, please visit: Peace Winds Japan - Kumamoto Earthquake Support

Ways to Contribute

Donations collected will be utilized directly for relief efforts addressing the impact of the Kumamoto earthquake. You can contribute through various platforms:

Through their communications channels, Peace Winds Japan continuously updates supporters and the public on their activities:

About Peace Winds Japan

Founded in 1996 by Kenjo Onishi, Peace Winds Japan is an international NGO that aids individuals facing humanitarian crises due to natural disasters, conflicts, or poverty. The organization has operated in over 41 countries and regions globally. They strive not only to provide disaster relief but also tackle social issues through various initiatives, including medical support and the promotion of animal welfare through 'Peace Wanko Japan.'

Headquarters Information

- Location: Jinseki-kogen, Hiroshima
- Phone: 0847-89-0885

The 'Flying Medical Rescue Team ARROWS'

This initiative is designed to respond swiftly to large-scale disasters, rendering medical and rescue services in affected areas utilizing transportation means such as aircraft, helicopters, and boats. The team is composed of healthcare professionals and search and rescue teams, all dedicated to saving lives. Since the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, they have been actively involved in every major disaster throughout Japan, collaborating with municipalities, hospitals, NPOs, businesses, and other agencies to provide optimal assistance from immediate rescue activities to medium- and long-term recovery support.

For more information, visit: ARROWS Official Page