Care facilities are conducting emergency preparations for the earthquake by counting their emergency supplies and moving hospitalised patients to higher floors, The Japan News reported.
Concerns are widespread regarding the potential loss of access to such facilities and possible delays in evacuating people inside, with a key issue now being how best to protect the most vulnerable during a disaster.
Nursing homes and hospitals in areas affected by the Megathrust Earthquake Attention Advisory are working to prepare for any potential impacts from the Nankai earthquake. Facilities on the artificial island of Sakishima in Osaka Bay are stocking up on emergency food and kitchen equipment following a government recommendation. They currently have a five-day supply of provisions. Additionally, around 160 residents need wheelchairs or assistance with mobility, which is causing concern.
Although the facility is not located in an area feared to be at risk of tsunami flooding, there are still worries that an earthquake could occur, and it would not be unexpected. The director of the nursing home stated that staff would move 20 residents from the second floor to the third floor to avoid the tsunami.
Measures are being implemented not just in healthcare but also in the railway sector. According to Central Japan Railway Co., Tokaido Shinkansen trains are currently operating at a reduced maximum speed of 230 km/h between Mishima Station in Shizuoka Prefecture and Mikawa-Anjo Station in Aichi Prefecture, leading to delays of up to 20 minutes.
Japan Airlines Co. and All Nippon Airways Co. are running their usual services, but they have to carry more fuel than normal on flights to and from the areas affected by the advisory. In the event of an unforeseen incident, airlines may need to rerouteflights to alternative airports outside of the affected areas.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a statement concerning the Nankai Trough, indicating that no unusual underground tremors have been detected at the anticipated epicentre. If no significant changes occur by Thursday at 5:00 p.m., the recommendations for disaster preparedness will begin to smooth.
