Following a weeklong information campaign that warned of the possibility of a “megaquake” hitting the Pacific coast of Japan, the government has ended the caution period. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued the country’s first-ever “megaquake advisory” after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck off southwestern Japan. The quake occurred along the Nankai Trough, a disaster-prone undersea trench, leading to concerns of a larger earthquake in the region. Despite no abnormal seismic activity being detected in the past week, officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential earthquakes.
The Cabinet Office disaster response official announced the end of the special caution period, emphasizing that the risk of a megaquake still exists. While no abnormal seismic activity was reported around the Nankai Trough in the past week, the possibility of a major earthquake remains. Officials are urging people to maintain their earthquake preparedness measures and be ready to respond to any future seismic events. The government had designated the past week as a period of “special caution” and preparedness in the region along the Nankai Trough to ensure residents were ready to evacuate if necessary.
In response to the megaquake advisory, the government called on more than 700 municipalities in 29 prefectures to review their preparedness and evacuation plans. The advisory caused widespread confusion and fear among the population, leading to disruptions in travel plans during Japan’s mid-August holiday week. Some coastal towns closed their beaches and canceled events like fireworks, while train operators reduced speed in the at-risk area. Despite the end of the caution period, the decision to continue voluntary measures will be left to municipalities, transportation services, and other businesses.
Seismologists predict a 70 to 80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake associated with the Nankai Trough occurring within the next 30 years. The location and timeframe of such an event, however, remain uncertain. The Nankai Trough, spanning about 800 kilometers along the southern half of Japan’s Pacific coast, has a history of causing devastating earthquakes and tsunamis. While the recent megaquake advisory has ended, officials are reminding the public to stay prepared for potential seismic events and to be aware of the risks posed by the Nankai Trough.
In conclusion, the recent information campaign and megaquake advisory in Japan have raised awareness about the potential risks of a major earthquake along the Pacific coast. Despite the end of the caution period, officials are reminding residents to maintain their earthquake preparedness measures and be ready to evacuate in the event of a seismic event. The unpredictability of earthquakes makes it essential for individuals and communities to stay informed and prepared for any future disasters. With the ongoing risk of a megaquake associated with the Nankai Trough, vigilance and readiness remain crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the population.
