SHIZUOKA (Kyodo) Hoping to prepare for a huge earthquake in the Tokai region, volunteer groups from 11 prefectures conducted an emergency drill Saturday in the city of Shizuoka.

About 170 people participated in the drill at a junior high school in the city, playing out a scenario that a huge earthquake had hit Shizuoka Prefecture, causing numerous casualties and heavy damage.

By looking at maps marked with the scale of damage in each area, participants discussed ways to distribute relief supplies to victims.

"Through this kind of emergency drill, it is necessary to establish close relationships with each other. This way, we can cope smoothly with real disasters," said Hideki Nagayasu, 32, a member of a volunteer group from Niihama, Ehime Prefecture.