Civil Protection Department

Earthquake in Japan: the Italian team started to return

The return of the team of Italian experts in evaluation and management of emergencies sent to Japan has commenced on the evening of today, March 19. The team left on March 15 following the earthquake and tsunami that hit the country. three officials of the Civil Protection Department and the technical ISPRA - Institute for the Protection and Environmental Research are back from Japan. Officials of the National Fire Service remained in Tokyo to continue monitoring of radioactivity levels in the area.

The Italian team, coordinated by the Civil Protection Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has focused its activities in the area, in support to the Italian Embassy in Tokyo. The team remained in constant contact with European teams and the coordination of the United Nations to better define the context of the situation and possible needs.

The Japanese authorities have expressed appreciation for Italy's punctuality in meeting requested times, procedures and means. During their stay in Tokyo, the Italian team has also collaborated with the Japanese authorities to assess the possible contribution that our country will provide - in agreement with the European Union and the United Nations.

During the next few days, survey activities with tools for detecting radiation and measurement of the atmosphere will be carried out by representatives of the Fire Department in the north areas of Tokyo.