Drones Will Help Fukushima Disaster Recovery Efforts

In 2011, Minamisoma, Japan, was devastated by the Fukushima tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster. But now, it's beginning to recover — thanks, in part, to drones.After the disaster, Minamisoma residents were ordered to evacuate and weren't able to come back until the evacuation order was lifted in July 2016. However, many stores and services remain closed as people slowly begin to return to the town.Enter drone maker Rakuten. They're partnering with a local convenience store chain, Lawson, to deliver products to Minamisoma with drones. Starting in late October, they'll deliver goods to the town, like small household objects and hot foods. It's a small step toward normalcy for the residents of Minamisoma.