Natural Disasters

You can expect many natural disasters to affect Japan:

• Earthquakes
• Tsunamis
• Typhoons
• Volcanic Eruptions
• Torrential Rains

Though these disasters may happen, with proper knowledge and preparation you can increase your chances of survival and safety.

During or shortly after a natural disaster (such as a typhoon), if you feel that your safety will be endangered by leaving your home or traveling to work, please contact your supervisor and let them know. Remember: your safety is the top priority.

Evacuation Shelters

Check the closest evacuation shelter near your home. The following maps are based on a list of locations provided by Kagoshima Prefecture:

• Kagoshima City Block
• Hioki Block
• Kirishima Block
• North Ōsumi
• South Ōsumi
• North Satsuma (including Koshiki Islands)
• South Satsuma
• Islands

Emergency Kits

Here are some suggested items to include in your emergency kit.

Necessary Items:

• Bottled Water
• Non-perishable Food (canned foods, instant noodles, etc.)
• Flashlight
• First Aid Kit
• Copy of Passport
• Copy of Residence Card
• Candles & Matches/Lighter
• Pocket Knife
• Radio
• Batteries

Good to Include:

• Money
• Inkan (Personal Seal)
• Bank Book/Bank Card
• Clean Clothing
• Disinfectant
• Bleach
• Emergency Contacts (for example, Supervisor)

Stay Informed

Register with you cellphone carrier’s emergency warning service.

• Docomo
• Softbank
• AU

Monitor weather patterns and warnings online with the Japan Meteorological Agency.

• Severe Weather Warnings
• Typhoons
• Volcanoes
• Tsunamis
• Earthquakes

Additionally, it is a good idea to check if your home country’s embassy offers email warning services for natural disasters, and register accordingly.

Natural Disasters 101

For more information on natural disasters, check out the Kagoshima City English Living Guide and the CLAIR Disaster Preparation Information page. You can also read this short guide on what to do during different natural disasters that occur in Kagoshima.