Japan’s reputation as a top disaster-preparedness nation stems from its strict seismic codes and a culture of preparedness, shaped by historical disaster lessons.
A recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake on Japan’s West Coast has led to an ongoing search for survivors. This quake, the region’s most severe in decades, triggered a tsunami evacuation for nearly 100,000 people. Early estimates report significant property damage and over 80 deaths.
Keith Porter, from Canada’s Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction, points out that Japan’s earthquake preparedness methods have evolved from analyzing past disasters. The country’s initial seismic building codes, introduced after the tragic 1923 earthquake, were focused on strengthening new urban buildings, particularly in the construction of wood and concrete structures.
