dark for a week, causing massive problems, especially for those living in the upper floors like hondaira>> translator: if you can't use an elevator, you become a solitary island on land. >> reporter: compounding the problem was a nearby evacuation shelter, leaving residents no choice but to remain in place. >> translator: high-rise apartment buildings are usually made of concrete and are typically safe. we want residents to stay there so that we can prioritize people in areas where there is greater risk. >> reporter: to make that possible, the building owner has implemented new measures, including installing a shutter valve to protect key systems from flood damage. they're also working with residents and local officials to create a more comprehensive emergency plan. >> translator: by continuing discussions, we expect to have a better disaster response moving forw ard. >> reporter: hondaira and his neighbors have been fortunate so far this year, and they hope the hard lessons of the past will be enough to keep them safe moving forward. >>> our next story is from osaka. residents in the ec