Disaster Alert Levels in Japan: Simple Guide

How foreign residents can understand evacuation information and warning levels in Japan.

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Quick checklist

  • Check Early
  • Know Evacuation Words
  • Who Should Evacuate
  • Do Not Wait Too Long
  • Ask Nearby People

Check Early

Disaster information may be announced before danger reaches your area. Check city office notices, weather information, and apps.

Know Evacuation Words

Words such as hinan, keikai level, takadai, and hinanjo may appear in alerts. Learn them before an emergency.

Who Should Evacuate

Older people, children, people with disabilities, pregnant people, and people in dangerous areas may need to move early.

Do Not Wait Too Long

Heavy rain, rivers, landslides, and night evacuation can be dangerous. Follow official instructions and local conditions.

Ask Nearby People

If you cannot understand the alert, ask neighbors, city office, company, school, or shelter staff for simple explanation.

Source and note

This article is based on official public information and is written in simple English. Procedures may differ by person and city. Please check the official page or a consultation office for your own case.

Source: https://www.bousai.go.jp/oukyu/hinanjouhou/r3_hinanjouhou_guideline/