Japan'S Tsunami

Japan's "smart homes" combine solar panels, electric cars and batteries not only to save energy but also to supply their own power when disaster strikes.

Surviving a megaquake in the Northwest is about more than having enough food and water. In the moments after the shaking stops, treating injuries and finding a safe shelter are paramount.

Jin Sato, mayor of Minamisanriku, Japan, was one of only 10 people to survive when the March 11, 2011, tsunami surge engulfed the three-story disaster prevention center where he was working. He discussed the lessons the community of Minamisanriku has learned as they’ve worked to recover from the disaster that upended their lives four years ago.

Advanced engineering and a location just outside of the tsunami zone allowed the Ishinomaki Red Cross Hospital in Japan to survive the 9.0 magnitude earthquake of March 11, 2011.

Everybody know it's coming. But can towns along the coast be ready in time? Here's what Seaside, Waldport and Yachats are doing to try.

Why would officials plan to build a new hospital in a known tsunami inundation zone? Perhaps there's no better choice.