Disasters disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, necessitating specialized support through welfare shelters, which offer tailored care for those with special needs. Despite their importance, comprehensive reporting on welfare shelter operations during disasters remains limited. This study aimed to analyze the establishment and operation of a welfare shelter in Wajima City, Japan, following the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, providing insights into operational processes.

The research presents a first-hand narrative account of a welfare shelter’s operation over a 3-month period. The authors, directly involved in key roles, structured the narrative around 3 phases: Initial (January 1-7, 2024), Operational (January 8-March 31, 2024), and Withdrawal (March-April 2024).

Key findings include challenges in personnel management and resource procurement during the initial phase, implementation of continuous care systems and health management in the operational phase, and difficulties in securing relocation sites for evacuees during the withdrawal phase. Challenges in maintaining nutritional balance and managing infectious diseases were observed throughout the shelter’s operation. Implementing flexible staffing strategies may serve as a practical means to support sustained welfare shelter management.

This case study highlights the importance of pre-disaster planning, broad regional collaboration, and adaptability and continuity in welfare shelter management. The study offers valuable lessons for improving welfare shelter operations and emphasizes the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness strategies including long-term care and relocation planning for vulnerable populations.