More than a decade after one of the worst natural disasters of our time, people in Japan are still living under the threat of another such disaster hitting their country. A recent survey shows that the memories of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 are still alive in the minds of the people of this country.A recent survey conducted by the Japanese Red Cross Society showed that more than 80% of respondents believe that such a disaster, which occurred in 2011, could happen again in the near future. On the other hand, about 70% of these respondents admitted that they had not done enough to prepare for such a disaster.
The disaster that changed Japan
On March 11, 2011, a major earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale struck off the northeastern coast of Japan. The earthquake caused a massive tsunami, causing widespread devastation in coastal cities in the Tohoku region of Japan. This natural disaster resulted in widespread destruction in the Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures of Japan. It resulted in approximately 20,000 deaths or disappearances and forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes.The intensity of the tsunami was extremely high in parts of Japan, destroying cities and infrastructure. This natural disaster also led to the nuclear accident at Fukushima Daiichi, which has become a major environmental and social challenge for Japan.UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission says the 2011 disaster has become the most important reminder in modern history that communities along the coast are vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis. This natural disaster has forced governments and organizations around the world to improve the effectiveness of tsunami warning systems, disaster education and preparedness.
Survey reveals widespread concern about future disasters
In the lead up to the 15th anniversary of the 2011 disaster, the Japanese Red Cross Society conducted a national survey to determine how people view the threat of disasters today.The results of an online survey of 1,200 people aged 10 and older in Japan showed that 80.3% believed that a serious disaster such as the Great East Japan Earthquake would happen again in the near future.The country is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of the Earth’s surface that is vulnerable to earthquakes.Earthquakes are common in Japan. Scientists have been saying for years that serious earthquakes are possible.
The gap in preparedness remains a major concern
Despite the high level of awareness about disaster risks in the country, the survey found that a large number of people are unprepared to face a disaster. “About 70 percent of the respondents said they had not taken adequate measures to prepare for a large-scale disaster. Such measures may include the preparation of supplies needed during an emergency or the acquisition of skills needed to respond to a disaster.“This is not a problem unique to Japan. Experts have described how people often underestimate how quickly a disaster will strike or think they will have time to respond if needed. However, earthquakes and tsunamis can occur without warning.
Why does remembering past disasters matter?
Another important conclusion that can be drawn from the survey is the need to remember past disasters. The survey revealed that more than 80% of people believe that the lessons of the 2011 earthquake should not be forgotten when discussing disaster preparedness. It is at this point that public awareness campaigns and memorial services become relevant.The younger generation may not be aware of the events that occurred in 2011. They need to be aware of the events that occurred in 2011 so that they can be prepared for future disasters. Japan has invested significantly in disaster education. Practices and measures exist to reduce the effects of earthquakes.
Living with the reality of natural disasters
The earthquake and tsunami experience in Japan has created a culture that prides itself on being resilient and prepared. Yet such surveys show that such a situation can be achieved only with sustained efforts.Natural disasters are difficult to predict. Still, the effects can be minimized with planning and awareness.It has been fifteen years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. The memories of that day are a poignant reminder of the strength and weakness of those who experienced it.The message for many in Japan is that the next disaster will not be one that can be prevented. Still, being prepared for it can make a big difference.