Support from Hokkaido to Disaster Areas Outside the Prefecture

Hokkaido has established a support office as of September 20, 2026, to assist areas affected by heavy rain disasters in Yamagata Prefecture. Following requests from national and local governments, Hokkaido is dispatching experts in civil engineering, agriculture, and forestry to support recovery work. This is part of Hokkaido’s effort to help other prefectures hit by disasters.

This support may concern foreign residents living in Japan if they have family or friends in affected areas. Those wishing to evacuate to Hokkaido can receive free public housing, with rent, deposit, and parking fees waived. The usual stay is one year, and application procedures are handled at local government offices.

The support started in September 2026, and staff dispatch continues. People interested in volunteering should check each municipality’s official website or disaster volunteer information sites for details.

When sending donations, verify the official sites of Hokkaido, the affected prefecture, or the Japanese Red Cross to avoid scams. Donations of goods are currently paused in some areas like Kumamoto Prefecture.