Global Major Cities Guide

Information on earthquake, tsunami, and other disaster protocols in Sendai, a city known for its focus on disaster resilience.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Disaster Preparedness in Sendai, Japan

Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region of Japan, is known for its resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. The city has a history of earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons, most notably the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of 2011. As a result, Sendai has developed robust disaster preparedness strategies and infrastructure to ensure the safety of its residents and visitors. Below is a detailed guide to disaster preparedness in Sendai, covering safety procedures, local strategies, emergency shelters, evacuation protocols, costs, and cultural/geographical considerations.

1. Understanding Disaster Risks in Sendai

Sendai is located in a seismically active region and is vulnerable to:

Earthquakes: Japan lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making earthquakes frequent.
Tsunamis: Coastal areas of Sendai are at risk of tsunamis following undersea earthquakes.
Typhoons: Heavy rains and strong winds occur during typhoon season (June to October).
Flooding: Rivers in the region, such as the Hirose River, can overflow during heavy rains.
Landslides: Mountainous areas around Sendai are prone to landslides after heavy rainfall.

2. Safety Procedures

a) Earthquake Safety

During an Earthquake:
- Drop, cover, and hold on. Take shelter under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall.
- Stay away from windows, glass, and heavy objects that could fall.
- If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
After an Earthquake:
- Be prepared for aftershocks.
- Check for injuries and assist others if safe to do so.
- Turn off gas and electrical appliances to prevent fires.

b) Tsunami Safety

If you feel a strong or long earthquake near the coast, immediately move to higher ground or designated evacuation areas without waiting for an official warning.
Follow tsunami evacuation signs, which are clearly marked in Sendai.

c) Typhoon and Flood Safety

Stay indoors and avoid rivers, coastal areas, and low-lying regions.
Monitor weather updates through local TV, radio, or smartphone apps like NHK World or Yahoo! Japan Disaster Alert.

d) Landslide Safety

Avoid hilly or mountainous areas during heavy rains.
Be aware of warning signs such as unusual sounds, cracks in the ground, or changes in water flow.

3. Local Disaster Preparedness Strategies

Sendai has implemented several measures to enhance disaster resilience:

Public Awareness Campaigns: The city regularly conducts disaster drills and provides educational materials in multiple languages.
Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure: Coastal areas have seawalls, and buildings are constructed to withstand earthquakes.
Real-Time Alerts: Japan’s Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) system sends alerts to smartphones, TVs, and radios seconds before an earthquake strikes.
Community Preparedness: Neighborhood associations (自治会, jichikai) play a key role in organizing local disaster response efforts.

4. Emergency Shelters

Sendai has numerous designated emergency shelters (避難所, hinanjo) that provide refuge during disasters. These include:

Public Schools: Many schools double as evacuation centers.
Community Centers: Local halls and gymnasiums are equipped to house evacuees.
Parks and Open Spaces: Some parks serve as temporary gathering points.

How to Locate Shelters:

Use the Sendai City Disaster Prevention Map (available online and in print at city offices).
Download apps like Safety Tips or Yahoo! Japan Disaster Alert, which provide shelter locations in English.
Look for signs with the kanji "避難所" or pictograms indicating evacuation sites.

What to Bring to a Shelter:

Emergency kit (water, food, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, etc.).
Personal identification (passport, residence card, etc.).
Medications and essential items.
Cash (ATMs may not work during disasters).

5. Evacuation Protocols

Before a Disaster:
- Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelter locations.
- Prepare an emergency kit and keep it accessible.
- Register with your embassy or consulate for updates and assistance.
During a Disaster:
- Follow instructions from local authorities and emergency broadcasts.
- Evacuate immediately if ordered, especially in tsunami-prone areas.
- Use public transportation if available, as roads may be congested.
After a Disaster:
- Stay in the shelter until authorities declare it safe to leave.
- Report your safety to family, friends, or your embassy.

6. Associated Costs

Emergency Shelters: Free of charge. Basic necessities like water and food are provided, but supplies may be limited.
Emergency Kits: Pre-made kits cost around ¥5,000–¥10,000 ($35–$70) and are available at stores like Don Quijote or online.
Insurance: Consider purchasing travel or renter’s insurance that covers natural disasters.

7. Cultural and Geographical Considerations

a) Cultural Preparedness

Japanese society emphasizes collective responsibility and cooperation during disasters. Visitors are expected to follow instructions and assist others when possible.
Disaster drills are a common part of life in Japan, and participating in them can help you understand local protocols.

b) Geographical Factors

Sendai’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean makes it vulnerable to tsunamis, but the city has invested heavily in mitigation measures.
The Hirose River, which runs through Sendai, is a potential flood risk during typhoons.

c) Language Barriers

While many resources are in Japanese, the city provides multilingual support during disasters. Look for signs or announcements in English, Chinese, and Korean.
Learn basic Japanese phrases like:
- "Tsunami wa doko desu ka?" (Where is the tsunami evacuation area?)
- "Hinanjo wa doko desu ka?" (Where is the evacuation shelter?)

8. Key Resources

Sendai City Official Website: https://www.city.sendai.jp (Disaster preparedness information in multiple languages).
Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA): https://www.jma.go.jp (Real-time weather and earthquake updates).
NHK World App: Provides disaster alerts and news in English.
Safety Tips App: Offers multilingual disaster information and alerts.

9. Final Tips

Always carry a fully charged phone and a portable battery.
Keep a small amount of cash on hand, as electronic payment systems may not work during disasters.
Stay calm and follow the lead of locals, who are well-trained in disaster response.

By understanding the risks and preparing accordingly, you can ensure your safety while living in or visiting Sendai. The city’s robust disaster preparedness measures and community spirit make it a model of resilience in the face of natural challenges.