Becoming Earthquake Resilient

Today, the NHK app alerted me of Tokyo being struck by an earthquake, a reminder that seismic activity can affect various parts of Japan.

Despite this, here in Gifu Prefecture where I reside, the seismic activity was minimal, registering only at level 1. Such tremors often go unnoticed by me, accustomed as I am to the occasional rumble of passing trucks along our street.

It’s only when the calamity alarm on our smartphones blares that I feel compelled to brace myself for potential danger.

Reflecting back, the most significant earthquake I experienced was on last New Year’s Day, a humbling reminder of the Earth’s power.

Growing up in Europe, earthquakes seemed like distant phenomena. Even news of catastrophic tremors in other countries failed to evoke a sense of personal vulnerability.

Living in Japan, however, has altered my perspective significantly.

As seismic events become a more regular occurrence in my life, I recognize the importance of resilience and preparedness in the face of such natural phenomena.