Name: Japan is top of the earthquake response game. Heres why
Uploaded: 2025-12-09T03:29:55.760Z
Duration: 2 min 45 s
Description: The latest earthquake in Japan on Dec. 8, which triggered widespread shaking and tsunami alerts, served as another clear example of the nation’s world-leading earthquake response efforts. CBC’s Johanna Wagstaffe explores the factors that make Japan stand out and the lessons other earthquake prone-countries can learn from their approach.

The latest earthquake in Japan on Dec. 8, which triggered widespread shaking and tsunami alerts, served as another clear example of the nation’s world-leading earthquake response efforts. CBC’s Johanna Wagstaffe explores the factors that make Japan stand out and the lessons other earthquake prone-countries can learn from their approach.

Aomori

A recent magnitude 7.6 earthquake off Japan's north coast caused widespread shaking and a small tsunami, but resulted in minimal damage. Japan's reputation as a leader in earthquake response is attributed to its frequent experience with seismic events, comprehensive community awareness, and conservative safety protocols.

Following the 2011 tsunami, Japan implemented strict evacuation procedures, reinforced infrastructure, and regular drills, ensuring communities are well-prepared. In contrast, other regions such as Canada and the US Pacific Northwest are still developing similar levels of preparedness, with Japan's approach serving as a model for effective disaster response.

Japan is top of the earthquake response game. Here's why

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Breakdown