all is well in Japan (almost)
the journal of Michael Werneburg
twenty-seven years and one million words
The Canadian government has signalled the all-clear for Canadians in Japan.
Dear Canadian,
The Embassy of Canada in Tokyo is working to provide the best possible guidance to Canadian citizens in Japan. To this end, we are updating Canadian citizens in Japan on current advice and information.
The travel warnings for Japan were updated on April 26, 2011:
Japan
The general advisory for Japan is now back to its pre-March 11th level and reads "exercise normal security precautions". Despite possible disruptions (to transportation and power, water, food and fuel supplies), the situation is largely returning to normal in most parts of the country, including in Tokyo.
Based on current information, areas outside the Japanese evacuation zone are still not subject to radiation levels associated with a health risk. See our Global Issue for more information. See also the Travel Health Notice of the Public Health Agency of Canada for additional health information and advice.
Affected areas of northern Honshu
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to areas of the northern Honshu prefectures of Ibaraki, Tochigi, Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima that were severely affected by the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Gunma has been removed from the list of affected prefectures.
The earthquake and tsunami caused extensive damage to infrastructure in some areas of northern Honshu. Ongoing reconstruction efforts are affecting telecommunications, transportation routes, emergency and medical care, as well as power, water, food and fuel supplies. Canadians in affected areas should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.
Fukushima nuclear power plant and surrounding areas
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel within 80 km of the Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Following damage to the Fukushima nuclear plant in Okumacho, Canadians are strongly advised to follow the advice issued by the Japanese authorities. An evacuation order is in effect for the zone within 20 km of the Fukushima plant, as well as the districts of Katsurao, Namie, parts of Kawamata, Minami Soma and Iitate. Japanese authorities recommend that people located within 20 to 30 km of the plant remain indoors, keep all windows and doors closed, and refrain from using ventilation systems.
As a further precautionary measure, given the evolving situation, Canadians located within 80 km of the Fukushima plant are advised to evacuate the area. All Canadians in Japan should follow instructions issued by the Japanese government as well as by local emergency response personnel.
Canadians are urged to monitor our travel report for Japan for travel advice and advisories.