Operation of Doctor Helicopters in Eastern Shizuoka Prefecture During the Tsunami Caused by the Massive Earthquake Near the Kamchatka Peninsula.
Air medical journal · 2025-10-08 · Case report
Abstract
On July 30, 2025, at approximately 08:25, a magnitude 8.7 earthquake occurred near the Kamchatka Peninsula. Although the earthquake itself caused no direct damage in eastern Shizuoka Prefecture, a tsunami was predicted to reach Japan, prompting the issuance of a tsunami warning. In response to the forecast-predicting tsunami heights of up to 3 m in eastern Shizuoka-operations of the physician-staffed helicopter were relocated to an inland landing site, away from the coastal area, to ensure the safety of patients, medical personnel, and the aircraft. To the best of our knowledge, no similar operational reports have been published in English-language medical literature. This report was therefore compiled as a reference for future documentation and disaster preparedness.