Disaster Preparedness for Earthquake and Typhoon Strikes

This technical report analyzes the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, which resulted in approximately 105,000 casualties, primarily due to violent fires exacerbated by strong winds from a nearby typhoon. The paper discusses the complex nature of this disaster, highlighting how simultaneous and time-lagged strikes of earthquakes and typhoons can create compounded risks. It examines historical data from meteorological observatories to understand the interplay between the earthquake and the typhoon, which contributed to additional sediment disasters like landslides. The author emphasizes the role of media in disseminating accurate information during disasters to prevent confusion and misinformation, which were rampant during the 1923 event. Furthermore, the report outlines potential countermeasures for future combined disasters, including voluntary evacuations and the importance of preparedness in the context of climate change and evolving social structures. The study serves as a reminder of the lessons learned from past disasters and the need for ongoing vigilance in disaster risk management.