Development of “A Support System for Disaster Prevention and Evacuation” Based on the Experience of the Kumamoto Earthquake

Abstract

In the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake that heavily impacted Mashiki Town of Kumamoto City, Japan, the cooperation between the Kumamoto City government, welfare shelters, and individuals with special needs was insufficient. As a result, many people requiring support could not use welfare shelters and spent their evacuation lives in places where they were not sufficiently equipped with adequate resources. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to propose support methods so that many people with special needs can use welfare shelters. In addition, we will deepen the cooperation between the three administrative parties by developing a support tool, “a support system for disaster prevention and evacuation”. The system embraces (1) disaster prevention activities, (2) aid during disasters, (3) restoration and reconstruction, and (4) support each phase for taking records and addressing issues. This system will allow many people with special needs to use welfare shelters in times of grave need. Demonstration experiments will be conducted utilising the system to help verify usefulness and identify points for improvement.