*Updated on Jan. 26
Ishikawa Prefecture has closed applications for volunteers in quake-hit Nanao City, Shika Town, and Anamizu Town, for the week starting January 27.
Officials say they have filled all 560 openings.
Applications for the week beginning February 3 will open on January 31.
Two more places that suffered extensive damage in the New Year's Day quake — Wajima City and Noto Town — are considering whether to bring in volunteers to help with clean-up work.
A third, Suzu City, is waiting on roads and other essential infrastructure to be restored before making a determination.
Quake-hit Ishikawa Prefecture has so far enlisted volunteers to help with clean-up work in three municipalities — Nanao City, Shika Town, and Anamizu Town — from January 27.
The prefecture initially urged people not to travel to the area to provide support, because of damage to roads and other infrastructure. Local governments are also not equipped to accept volunteers.
But Ishikawa Governor Hase Hiroshi announced on January 23 that the three municipalities would welcome volunteers from outside the prefecture starting on January 27.
The prefecture began taking applications on January 24. It says that each day it will place a fresh group of around 20 volunteers in Nanao City, 45 in Shika Town, and 15 in Anamizu Town. Most of the work will involve clearing debris.
The governor indicated that he would consider opening up more areas to volunteers based on the needs of each place.