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Japan Prepares for Car Evacuations: New Measures and Toilet Trailer

24.04.2026 06:16 1 min 3 sources РУС
mainichi.jp JPN + 2 more
Japan Prepares for Car Evacuations: New Measures and Toilet Trailer
Original source: au Webポータル|最新のニュースをお届け!

In Brief

Japan expands disaster support to include those staying in cars. A toilet trailer for disasters is introduced, but in Hyogo only two cities have designated parking spots.

Japan is changing its approach to supporting disaster victims. In June 2024, the government revised its Basic Disaster Management Plan to officially include support for people who cannot or choose not to go to designated evacuation shelters, particularly those staying at home or in their cars (shachūhaku). The new policy promotes setting up small community-based support hubs to distribute food, water, and information. The change follows lessons from the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, where about 40% of residents slept in cars, leading to cases of economy class syndrome.

In Nogata (Fukuoka Prefecture), a toilet trailer has been acquired that is towed by a vehicle and is intended for use during major disasters. The trailer operates even during power outages and can be dispatched to assist other municipalities. Its exterior design was created by 12-year-old cut-picture artist KEN, appointed as a hometown support ambassador. The decision was made after the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, when poor sanitary conditions led to deaths of victims due to refusal to eat and drink.

However, preparation for car overnight evacuation in Hyogo Prefecture is lagging: only two cities have pre-designated parking spots for evacuees. Kobe City does not recommend this practice, fearing it may cause traffic congestion.

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Story sources

Nogata City Introduces Toilet Trailer for Large-Scale Disasters, Operates During Power Outages, Supports Other Municipalities

24.04.2026 mainichi.jp JPN Original source

Japan shifts disaster support: aid now reaches those staying home or in vehicles, not just evacuation centers

22.04.2026 komei.or.jp JPN Original source

Preparation for vehicle-based evacuation in Hyogo Prefecture: Only two cities have designated parking spaces in advance

21.04.2026 article.auone.jp JPN Original source

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