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Emergency Alerts System

Overview of Japan's nationwide alert system for disasters and emergencies, including mobile alerts.

Sections

1. Overview of Japanโ€™s Emergency Alert System

Japanโ€™s Emergency Alert System is a nationwide network that disseminates critical information about emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, landslides, floods, and other disasters. It is designed to provide real-time alerts to ensure public safety and minimize damage.

The system is managed by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA), in collaboration with local governments, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), and telecommunications providers.

2. Key Features of the Emergency Alert System

  • J-Alert (ๅ…จๅ›ฝ็žฌๆ™‚่ญฆๅ ฑใ‚ทใ‚นใƒ†ใƒ , Zenkoku Shunji Keihล System):

    • A nationwide satellite-based alert system that broadcasts emergency warnings directly to municipalities, schools, and public facilities.
    • Alerts are transmitted via loudspeakers, television, radio, and mobile phones.
    • Covers disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, missile launches, volcanic eruptions, and severe weather.

  • Emergency Warning System (็ทŠๆ€ฅ่ญฆๅ ฑ, Kinkyลซ Keihล):

    • Issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) for severe weather events like typhoons, heavy rain, and snowstorms.
    • Alerts are disseminated through TV, radio, and mobile apps.

  • Earthquake Early Warning (็ทŠๆ€ฅๅœฐ้œ‡้€Ÿๅ ฑ, Kinkyลซ Jishin Sokuho):

    • A specialized system that detects seismic activity and sends alerts seconds before strong shaking occurs.
    • Alerts are broadcast via TV, radio, and mobile phones.

  • Wireless Emergency Alerts (็ฝๅฎณๆƒ…ๅ ฑ, Saigai Jลhล):

    • Sent directly to mobile phones using the Cell Broadcast System.
    • Available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, for foreign residents and visitors.

3. National Regulations Governing Emergency Alerts

  • Disaster Countermeasures Basic Act (็ฝๅฎณๅฏพ็ญ–ๅŸบๆœฌๆณ•):

    • This law mandates the establishment of systems like J-Alert to ensure rapid dissemination of emergency information.
    • Local governments are required to have disaster response plans and conduct regular drills.

  • Broadcast Act (ๆ”พ้€ๆณ•):

    • Requires broadcasters to prioritize emergency announcements during disasters.

  • Telecommunications Business Act (้›ปๆฐ—้€šไฟกไบ‹ๆฅญๆณ•):

    • Obligates mobile carriers to provide emergency alerts free of charge to all users, including foreign visitors.

4. Costs of the Emergency Alert System

  • For Residents and Visitors:

    • Receiving emergency alerts is completely free of charge. Mobile carriers in Japan (e.g., NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au) are required to provide these alerts as a public service.
    • No subscription or special settings are needed for most modern smartphones; alerts are automatically enabled.

  • For the Government:

    • The system is funded through national and local government budgets, with significant investment in technology and infrastructure.

5. Standard Procedures for Receiving and Responding to Alerts

  • How Alerts Are Delivered:

    • Mobile Phones: Alerts are sent automatically to all compatible devices in the affected area. No app download is required, but apps like "NHK World" or "Safety Tips" can provide additional information in multiple languages.
    • Loudspeakers: Public address systems in cities and towns broadcast warnings and instructions.
    • Television and Radio: Emergency messages interrupt regular programming.
    • Online Platforms: Alerts are shared via government websites, social media, and apps.

  • What to Do When You Receive an Alert:

    1. Earthquake Early Warning:
      • Take cover immediately under a sturdy table or desk.
      • Stay away from windows and heavy objects.
    2. Tsunami Warning:
      • Move to higher ground or designated evacuation areas immediately.
      • Do not return to low-lying areas until the all-clear is given.
    3. Severe Weather Warning:
      • Avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors.
      • Monitor updates from local authorities.
    4. Missile Alert:
      • Seek shelter in a sturdy building or underground.
      • Stay away from windows and follow instructions from authorities.

6. Country-Specific Considerations for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Language Accessibility:

    • Many alerts are issued in Japanese, but efforts have been made to provide multilingual support.
    • The "Safety Tips" app, developed by the Japan Tourism Agency, provides real-time alerts in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages.
    • NHK World (English-language news service) broadcasts emergency information during major disasters.

  • Cultural Context:

    • Japanese society places a strong emphasis on disaster preparedness. Regular drills are conducted in schools, workplaces, and communities.
    • Visitors and immigrants are encouraged to participate in these drills to familiarize themselves with local procedures.

  • Mobile Phone Compatibility:

    • Ensure your phone is compatible with Japanโ€™s emergency alert system. Most modern smartphones purchased internationally will work, but older models may not support the Cell Broadcast System.
    • If you are using a rental phone or SIM card, confirm with the provider that emergency alerts are enabled.

  • Evacuation Centers:

    • Designated evacuation centers (้ฟ้›ฃๆ‰€, Hinanjo) are set up during disasters. These are typically located in schools, community centers, or public buildings.
    • Foreign residents and visitors are welcome to use these facilities, and some centers provide multilingual support.

  • Stay Informed:

    • Follow local government websites and social media accounts for updates.
    • Familiarize yourself with the nearest evacuation routes and centers in your area.

7. Recommended Apps and Resources

  • Safety Tips App:

    • Provides real-time alerts and disaster information in multiple languages.
    • Available for free on iOS and Android.

  • NHK World App:

    • Offers English-language news and emergency updates.

  • Japan Meteorological Agency Website:

  • Local Government Websites:

    • Many municipalities have disaster preparedness information in English and other languages.

8. Final Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Always carry a charged mobile phone to receive alerts.
  • Keep a basic emergency kit (water, food, flashlight, etc.) in your home or accommodation.
  • Learn basic Japanese phrases related to emergencies, such as:
    • "Jishin desu!" (ๅœฐ้œ‡ใงใ™!) โ€“ "Itโ€™s an earthquake!"
    • "Hinan shite kudasai." (้ฟ้›ฃใ—ใฆใใ ใ•ใ„) โ€“ "Please evacuate."
  • Stay calm and follow instructions from authorities during an emergency.

By understanding and preparing for Japanโ€™s Emergency Alert System, you can ensure your safety and respond effectively during a crisis.