Introducing the Strong Motion Monitor Layer
On September 1, 2023, marking the solemn centenary of the Great Kanto Earthquake, TBS NEWS DIG Powered by JNN28, a prominent news media outlet under the flagship of TBS TV, unveiled a groundbreaking enhancement to its disaster prevention capabilities. This transformative update introduces an unprecedented feature known as the “strong motion monitor layer” within their app.
For the first time in the history of news organizations, this technology displays real-time seismic intensity, offering users unparalleled insights into the unfolding tremors. By answering the critical questions of “now, where, and how much,” this update empowers individuals to take swift and informed actions to safeguard their lives.
A Visual Insight into Earthquake Tremors
The latest update to the “TBS NEWS DIG” app introduces the “strong motion monitor layer,” an innovative tool that paints a vivid picture of seismic activity across Japan in real-time. Visualized on an interactive map, this layer provides an intuitive understanding of the propagation of tremors following an earthquake.
No longer will individuals have to rely on traditional methods of seeking out information during a quake; instead, they can instantly access vital details through the app at their fingertips.
Averting the Aftermath: Navigating Consecutive Quakes
In the aftermath of a major earthquake, the risk of aftershocks looms large. Recognizing this, the strong motion monitor layer excels in delivering timely insights even in the midst of multiple simultaneous quakes. The layer’s visual representation on the map clearly indicates the areas that have been significantly impacted by substantial tremors, ensuring that users can swiftly discern the extent of the ongoing seismic activity.
Thoughtful Design for Instantaneous Action
The team behind the “TBS NEWS DIG” app prioritizes urgency and efficiency. The strong motion monitor layer employs a color universal design to enable users with varying degrees of color vision to seamlessly comprehend the seismic spread. Amid the chaos of an unfolding disaster, every second counts, and this design ensures that all users can intuitively make decisions that could save lives.
Lifesaving Alerts in Human Voices
In a bid to make disaster prevention information more accessible, the app’s notification sounds are receiving a thoughtful upgrade this September. Instead of the conventional mechanical alarms, the app will now feature the reassuring voices of TBS announcers Takahiro Inoue and Maonko Hibi. This human touch aims to prevent users from being startled by unfamiliar sounds, ensuring that crucial evacuation actions are taken promptly and calmly.
Voices of Empowerment
Announcer Takahiro Inoue expressed his thoughts on this innovative approach, stating,
“Can’t we provide evacuation support through ‘human voices’ rather than just loud alarms? It’s a part of our trial and error, and your support would be greatly appreciated.”
Echoing this sentiment, announcer Maonko Hibi added,
“I believe that the power of the human voice is unmatched. I have put my heart into crafting concise yet impactful words to protect every individual.”
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
One hundred years have passed since the catastrophic Great Kanto Earthquake claimed the lives of over 100,000 people. As the world remains uncertain about when the next major quake will strike, “TBS NEWS DIG” app pledges to persistently enhance its capabilities, serving as a reliable “information lifeline” during dire circumstances.
With an unwavering commitment to its “social mission” as a media entity, the app encourages users to prepare for the unpredictable future.
Unveiling the Science Behind Real-Time Seismic Intensity
The concept of “seismic intensity” quantifies the strength of shaking experienced during an earthquake. Traditionally, this value is reported as a single figure for each point and is calculated based on data from the first minute of shaking.
The “real-time seismic intensity” developed by the National Research and Development Agency Disaster Prevention Science and Technology Research Institute offers an innovative approach. It allows individuals to monitor the gradual increase in seismic intensity during shaking, providing insights into the evolving tremors and their ultimate impact.
Collaborative Initiatives for Resilience
In a strategic move to bolster its disaster prevention capabilities, TBS Television and TBS/JNN NEWS DIG GK embarked on a collaborative endeavor. The two entities signed a mutual cooperation agreement on August 28, 2023, to leverage seismometer shaking data for societal disaster prevention and mitigation efforts. With a shared commitment to strengthening disaster reporting, this partnership envisions a safer and more resilient future.
The Rising Star of Information Dissemination
“TBS NEWS DIG Powered by JNN” emerges as a trailblazing news media, seamlessly integrating 28 JNN stations with TBS TV at its helm. Leveraging news sites and cutting-edge apps, this platform offers a diverse array of information. Since its launch in April 2022, the news site has garnered over 100 million page views monthly. Its rapid growth trajectory propelled it to exceed 200 million page views for the first time in June 2023.
In an age marked by uncertainty, the “TBS NEWS DIG” app’s visionary updates represent a resolute commitment to providing invaluable insights during times of crisis. As the legacy of the Great Kanto Earthquake serves as a solemn reminder, the app’s evolution stands as a testament to the pursuit of preparedness and resilience.
