Japan observes Disaster Prevention Day to honor Great Kanto Earthquake victims

September 1 marks Disaster Prevention Day in Japan, a day established by the government in 1960 to commemorate the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The earthquake, which struck at 11:58 AM, resulted in approximately 105,000 deaths and missing persons, making it the largest earthquake disaster in Japan since the Meiji era.

Historical accounts highlight the devastating impact of the disaster, including widespread fires caused by cooking activities and significant tsunami waves reaching heights of up to 10 meters along the Sagami and Boso coasts. The chaos led to massive destruction of wooden housing and infrastructure across the Kanto region.

In modern observance, the day serves as a reminder of the unpredictable power of nature and the importance of preparedness. Educational institutions and public figures use the occasion to promote disaster awareness and conduct evacuation drills to mitigate the risks of future seismic events.