Japan Meteorological Agency Japan Meteorological Agency
Japanese Evacuation Orders: Protecting Residents from Disasters
In Japan, a country prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and landslides, evacuation orders (避難指示, hinan shiji) are crucial for protecting the public. These orders are issued by local authorities (municipalities, cities, towns, and villages) when a disaster is imminent or already occurring and poses a significant threat to life.
Key Concepts:
- Issuing Authority: Evacuation orders are issued by the head of the local municipality (e.g., the mayor of a city). They are based on assessments of risk and damage caused by, or anticipated from, a disaster.
- Target Area: The order specifies the area or zones that must be evacuated. This is determined based on the predicted impact of the disaster.
- Triggering Events: Evacuation orders are typically issued based on specific disaster-related events, such as:
- Heavy Rainfall: Landslide warnings, flood warnings for rivers overflowing.
- Earthquakes: Tsunami warnings (especially after a strong earthquake).
- Typhoons: High winds, storm surge warnings.
- Volcanic Eruptions: Ashfall, pyroclastic flows.
- Other Hazards: Fires, industrial accidents involving hazardous materials.
- Types of Evacuation Information (Historically): It’s essential to understand that the terminology changed significantly in 2021. Previously, there were different levels of evacuation advisories. While remnants of these might linger in some older information, the focus is now on simplified and clearer messaging.
- Current Evacuation Information:
- 避難指示 (Hinan Shiji) – Evacuation Order: This is the strongest and most urgent level. It means there is a very high risk to your life and you must evacuate immediately to a safe location, such as a designated evacuation shelter (避難所, hinanjo). Delays are extremely dangerous at this point.
- 高齢者等避難 (Koureisha tou hinan) – Evacuation of Elderly People, etc.: This directs elderly people, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and other individuals who may require extra time to evacuate to start evacuating. It is also a call for those who assist such people to begin preparations.
- 警戒レベル (Keikai Reberu) – Alert Level: Japan uses an alert level system (1-5) to indicate the severity of a disaster situation. Evacuation orders (避難指示) are often issued at Alert Level 4 or 5.
- Evacuation Shelters (避難所, hinanjo): These are designated public facilities (schools, community centers, gyms, etc.) that are opened during disasters to provide temporary shelter for evacuees. The locations of evacuation shelters are typically published on the municipality’s website and in disaster preparedness materials.
- How to Receive Evacuation Information:
- Municipal Websites: Official websites of cities, towns, and villages.
- Local TV and Radio: Emergency broadcasts.
- Loudspeakers: Public address systems in neighborhoods.
- Mobile Apps: Many municipalities have disaster preparedness apps that send notifications.
- Email Alerts: Some municipalities offer email alert services.
- Social Media: Official accounts of local authorities.
- Important Actions to Take When an Evacuation Order is Issued:
- Evacuate Immediately: Do not delay! Your safety is the priority.
- Go to a Designated Evacuation Shelter: If you don’t have a safer place to go.
- Bring Essential Items: A disaster preparedness kit with water, food, medications, a flashlight, a radio, and other essential supplies.
- Inform Others: If possible, notify your neighbors or family members that you are evacuating.
- Secure Your Home (If Time Permits): Turn off gas and electricity, lock doors and windows.
- Follow Official Instructions: Heed the instructions of local authorities and emergency personnel.
Important Points to Remember:
- Don’t Hesitate: When an evacuation order is issued, it’s critical to act promptly. Don’t underestimate the potential danger.
- Prepare in Advance: Create a disaster preparedness kit and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelter locations in your area.
- Stay Informed: Monitor official sources of information during a disaster.
- Help Others: If you are able, assist elderly people, people with disabilities, or families with young children who may need help evacuating.
In summary, Japanese evacuation orders are a vital part of the country’s disaster preparedness system. Understanding the different levels of alerts, knowing how to receive information, and taking appropriate action can significantly increase your safety during a disaster.
Evacuation Order