For more information about friends or relatives visiting or living in Japan, you can visit:
U.S. citizens may contact the Department of State at JapanEmergencyUSC@state.gov. Updated information on travel and security in Japan may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747.
The State Department strongly urges U.S. citizens to defer travel to Japan at this time and those in Japan should consider departing. On March 16, 2011, the State Department authorized the voluntary departure from Japan of eligible family members of U.S. government personnel in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Yokohama. The State Department is also working to assist U.S. citizens to depart from affected areas. U.S. citizens in Tokyo should review the Japan Earthquake/Pacific Tsunami webpage at http://travel.state.gov for updated departure-related information.
The Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco has set up a special operations room to receive inquiries concerning the earthquake.
For more information about the situation and how to help, you can visit:
For information about radiation concerns due to the Japan earthquake and tsunami, you can visit:
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission statement that they do not expect dangerous levels of radiation to reach the U.S.
The California Department of Public Health statement and FAQ page which answers questions such as:
Q. Should I be taking potassium iodide to protect myself?
A. No. Potassium iodide tablets are not recommended at this time, and can present a danger to people with allergies to iodine, shellfish or who have thyroid problems.
Q. Should I purchase potassium iodide as a precaution?
A. No. Potassium iodide is only appropriate within a very close proximity to a nuclear event. Using potassium iodide when inappropriate could have potential serious side effects such as abnormal heart rhythms, nausea, vomiting, electrolyte abnormalities and bleeding.
To sign up to receive free, up-to-date information during an emergency via text and/or email from the San Francisco Department of Emergency Management, you can visit:
March 11, 2011
Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and massive tsunami struck Japan, resulting in the deaths of more than 40 people. A tsunami warning has been issued across the Pacific Ocean, including in San Francisco and the entire west coast of the United States:
"Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences rest with people of Japan today – those affected by the earthquake and tsunami, the loved ones of those lost in this natural disaster, the communities now confronting the aftermath of this tragedy. The images of destruction and devastation touch the hearts of families around the world, and Members of Congress and all Americans stand ready to offer our aid and support to Japan in its hour of need.
"With tsunami warnings throughout the Pacific, I encourage my constituents in San Francisco and Americans throughout the west coast, Hawaii, and others in its path to remain vigilant, to heed all warnings and instructions from emergency personnel, and to take every precaution to ensure their safety. Officials from federal, state, and local agencies are prepared to offer any assistance necessary, and we will work with all levels of government to respond effectively as the tsunami reaches our shores."