Following the earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture on July 28, 2026, many evacuees are forced to sleep in their vehicles due to damaged homes and power outages. Authorities are urging precautions against heatstroke and economy-class syndrome (deep vein thrombosis).
Recommendations include drinking water and replenishing salt regularly, parking in shaded and well-ventilated areas, and not leaving infants or children alone in the car. To prevent thrombosis, people are advised to change positions, move their toes, and take deep breaths. Where possible, evacuees should use shelters; if sleeping in a car is unavoidable, they should ensure enough space to stretch their legs.
Experts also warn of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from prolonged engine idling and heatstroke due to lack of fuel for air conditioning. Regular ventilation of the cabin is advised. Earlier, a 70-year-old woman who had been sleeping in a car died, presumably from heatstroke; the car had run out of gasoline.
In Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, a preventive event was held where participants, including parents with children, tried sleeping in a car. Experts recommended sleeping with legs stretched out, using the headrest and blankets to level the surface, and moving every 1–2 hours. In hot weather, it is important to drink water and salt even if not thirsty.
