Japan is a safe country to live in. However, natural disasters can occur. Knowing what to do can keep you safe.
Major Disasters in Japan
Earthquakes
Earthquakes can happen without warning. Therefore, it is important to stay calm and protect yourself immediately. In addition, strong shaking may damage buildings, and furniture may also fall over.
Typhoons
Typhoons usually occur from summer to autumn and bring strong winds and heavy rain. As a result, public transportation may stop operating. Therefore, travelers should check train schedules in advance.
Heavy Rain and Flooding
Heavy rain can cause flooding, and roads or rivers may become dangerous. Therefore, always follow local warnings. In addition, evacuate early if local authorities issue an alert.
Disaster-related information can be found at the link below.
Disaster Management – Cabinet Office
Check Your Evacuation Area
Find the nearest evacuation shelter. Schools and community centers are common shelters. Check your city website for details.
Search online for:
- Your city + Evacuation Shelter
- Your city + Hazard Map
Prepare an Emergency Bag
Keep emergency supplies ready at home. Store them in an easy-to-carry bag.
- Residence Card copy
- Passport copy
- Cash
- Drinking water
- Food supplies
- Medicine
- Flashlight
- Mobile battery
- Mask
- Towel
What to Do During an Earthquake
First, protect your head immediately.
Next, stay away from windows and shelves.
If possible, hide under a sturdy desk.
However, do not use elevators.
Instead, wait until the shaking stops.
Then, move carefully to a safe place.
Before a Typhoon Arrives
- Charge your phone
- Charge power banks
- Buy food and water
- Check train information
- Stay indoors if possible
Bring items from your balcony inside. Strong winds can blow them away.
During Heavy Rain
Avoid rivers and waterways. Do not enter flooded roads. Follow evacuation instructions early.
Nighttime evacuation can be dangerous. Move before conditions worsen.
Useful Disaster Apps
- Safety Tips
- Yahoo! Disaster Alert
- NHK WORLD-JAPAN
- Google Maps
These apps provide emergency information. Many support multiple languages.
Important Japanese Words
| Japanese | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 避難 hinan | Evacuation |
| 避難所 hinanjo | Evacuation Shelter |
| 警報 keihou | Warning |
| 停電 teiden | Power Outage |
| 断水 dansui | Water Outage |
Summary
Disasters can happen anywhere in Japan. Therefore, it is important to prepare in advance.
- Know your evacuation shelter
- Prepare an emergency bag
- Install disaster apps
- Check local hazard maps
If you need help living in Japan, feel free to contact willow. We support foreigners throughout Japan.
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