Abstract
January 2020 marked the 25th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. In order to study public attitudes towards disasters, the authors analyze the results of a nationwide public opinion survey that was conducted by NHK in 2019. The findings include the following.
- People who “clearly remember” the earthquake and the damages account for 59% in the Kansai region that was hit by the quake, but the figure was only 36% on a national level.
- Earthquake resistance standards were reviewed in 1981, but when asked about the houses that had been built before that year, the majority, 68%, say, “I have not reinforced my house against earthquakes.” Furthermore, about 80% find their earthquake preparedness at home “insufficient (including ‘somewhat’).” Regarding a question on whether residents will help each other when a major disaster occurs, “I don't think so” outnumbers “I think so.” Meanwhile, the survey finds that those who experienced disasters, those who are concerned about possible disasters, and those who are ready to confront natural threats or expect mutual cooperation among community members are more prepared.
- As to a level-four evacuation advisories/orders at a time of heavy rainfall, 45% answered they would “not evacuate immediately.” The reasons for “not evacuating immediately” include “life in a shelter must be stressful” (32%) and “I will need to think about evacuating family members” (23%).
- Regarding evacuation calls used in broadcast, the most-cited answer for the most effective expressions is “mentioning of detailed place names in the area I live,” followed by “Evacuate immediately!” In response to a question on who can make you evacuate, the most-cited answer is “local government officers,” and the second place was shared by “Japan Meteorological Agency officers” and “announcers I see on local programs.”
