Hypothermia Progression Time Course for Evacuation Planning

Introduction: Accidental hypothermia occurs very rarely. Japan experienced hypothermic victims in the 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster. In northern Japan, where largest class of earthquakes tsunamis are estimated, study for countermeasures has been advanced. The progression varies significantly by individual differences environmental factors, it is considered to be challenging assess its damage. We present findings that can basis damage estimation from data mountain rescue. Method: From 2002 2020, we examined ten fatal cases witnessed respiratory arrest (HWRA) companions, which led subsequent cardiac among 164 collected time course deceased rescue records calculated cold exposure symptom, incapable, HWRA. Temperature wind speed were extrapolated nearby AMEDAS upper-air weather records, chill index (WCI) was calculated. Results: obtained seven ten, five males two females between 21 67 years old. conditions placed -5 -30°C WCI. shortest incapacity 65 minutes, 42.9% (3/7) within 180 fastest HWRA 90 with 57.1% (4/7) 10 12 half hours. Conclusion: For disaster evacuation measures, both evacuees rescuers need specific indicators refer to. little but valuable data, consider hours necessary lifesaving similar conditions. Additionally, increasing number become incapacitated 1-3 information considering location shelter plan.