In case of a major earthquake

During a major earthquake

Is there a chance the stations and tunnels might collapse?: Structures such as the pillars found in our underground sections are reinforced sufficiently so as to prevent collapses, even in the event of a major earthquake. However, there is a possibility that some ceiling lighting fixtures and guide signs may become insecure as a result of the vibrations and fall off. Therefore, please take careful note of your entire surroundings, above and below, both during and after the vibrations.

Are trains still safe during earthquakes?: If data from seismometers and early earthquake warning systems installed along our routes predict or detect strong seismic activity, our trains will stop immediately in case the vibrations continue or increase in intensity. If you hear an emergency-stop announcement while riding a train, please hold on to one of the safety handrails or straps.

Highlight: Further Improvements to Earthquake-Proofing Measures

Based on the lessons learned from historic earthquakes such as the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995, Tokyo Metro builds structures such as tunnels and overpasses with seismic reinforcements that will prevent collapses in the event of an earthquake, even if there were an earthquake directly beneath Tokyo with a seismic intensity of up to 7 on the Japanese scale. In the Sendai region, where the Tohoku earthquake struck in 2011 (maximum intensity level of 7), there was no collapse of the rail facilities, but there was damage sufficient enough to hinder the resumption of operations. With this in mind, Tokyo Metro is proceeding with further seismic reinforcement works so that not only will our facilities be safe from collapse, but will also allow quick resumption of services.

Following a major earthquake

Is it possible to end up being trapped in a train?: Even in the event of an emergency stop between stations, the train will continue on to the next nearest feasible station platform after confirming that it is safe to do so. If the train is fully demobilized, the train crew will put in place safety measures and provide passengers with evacuation guidance. In such an event, please follow the instructions given by the train crew and do not try to force your way out of the train unnecessarily.

Will there be any light in the event of a blackout?: Our facilities include emergency generators that supply power to disaster-response equipment in stations and tunnels such as emergency lighting, meaning that you will never be left in pitch black. Furthermore, some train lighting and transmission/communications equipment may be possible to use through use of the train batteries.
If the power outage continues for a prolonged period of time, please evacuate to a safe location under the guidance of station staff or the train crew.

Highlight: Further Improvements to Disaster-Response Systems

Taking into consideration the large numbers of people who were unable to return home following the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in 2011, Tokyo Metro has stockpiled in its stations enough drinking water, space blankets, basic mattresses and portable toilets to accommodate roughly 100,000 people.