Multi-Hazardous Case Study

Question 1

Where is Tohoku, Japan located, and why is it a multi-hazardous region? (Mention 2 things)

Answer 1

• Tohoku is in northeastern Japan, an area exposed to earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons.
• Japan lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly seismically active.

Question 2

What happened during the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami? (Mention 2 things)

Answer 2

• 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck offshore on 11 March 2011.
• Triggered a 10m tsunami that devastated coastal areas.

Question 3

What were the 3 primary impacts of the 2011 Tohoku disaster?

Answer 3

• Over 15,800 deaths and 6,000 injuries.
• 300,000 people displaced from homes.
• Fukushima nuclear plant meltdown, releasing radioactive material.

Question 4

What were the 3 secondary impacts of the 2011 Tohoku disaster?

Answer 4

• Tsunami destroyed entire towns along the coast.
• $235 billion in economic losses (most expensive disaster in history).
• Global disruption to car and electronics industries due to damaged factories.

Question 5

How is Japan affected by typhoons? (Mention 2 things)

Answer 5

• Japan is hit by several typhoons each year, causing flooding and landslides.
• Typhoons worsen the impact of earthquakes by weakening infrastructure.

Question 6

Why is Japan vulnerable to landslides? (Mention 2 things)

Answer 6

• Steep mountainous terrain makes landslides common after earthquakes and heavy rainfall.
• Deforestation and urbanisation increase the risk of landslides.

Question 7

What were the 3 immediate responses to the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami?

Answer 7

• 110,000 troops deployed for rescue efforts.
• Tsunami warnings issued within minutes, saving lives.
• International aid and support provided food, water, and shelter.

Question 8

What were the 3 long-term responses to the Tohoku disaster?

Answer 8

• New tsunami defences built along the coastline.
• Stronger earthquake-resistant buildings developed.
• Fukushima cleanup efforts and improved nuclear safety regulations.

Question 9

How has Japan improved its disaster preparedness? (3 things to mention)

Answer 9

• Regular earthquake drills and evacuation plans.
• Advanced early warning systems for earthquakes and tsunamis.
• Stronger building regulations to withstand earthquakes and typhoons.

Question 10

What are Japan’s 3 future challenges in managing hazards?

Answer 10

• Aging population makes evacuations more difficult. - High cost of maintaining and upgrading disaster defences.
• Climate change increasing typhoon intensity and sea level rise.