To comprehensively investigate the factors associated with tsunami evacuation after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE).

This cross-sectional study conducted a baseline survey between 2013 and 2016 and included 15,935 participants. The participants were asked to self-report whether they had evacuated after the GEJE and their basic characteristics, as well as their socio-behavioral, physical, lifestyle, and mental factors. The objective variable was the presence or absence of tsunami evacuation after the GEJE, and the explanatory variables were comprehensively explored with reference to previous studies.

Factors associated with the promotion of tsunami evacuation included being a woman, age 30-39 years, working, damage to houses, and participation in tsunami or earthquake evacuation drills before the GEJE. Factors associated with the inhibition of tsunami evacuation were over 60 years of age, higher education, living in areas unaffected by the GEJE, having a spouse, living with many cohabitants, having pets such as dogs or cats, and a high level of physical activity.

This study demonstrates the necessity of enhancing the evacuation processes of older adults, cohabitants, and households with pets. It is important to conduct evacuation drills and hold discussions about disasters within families and households.