What's happened
Japan's government has lifted its first-ever megaquake advisory following a week of heightened caution after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck off Kyushu. Officials confirmed no abnormal seismic activity was detected, but urged continued preparedness for future quakes along the Nankai Trough, where a significant risk remains.
What's behind the headline?
Public Response
- Increased anxiety among citizens
- Panic buying of essentials like food and water
- Local governments implementing precautionary measures
Government Actions
- Prime Minister Kishida canceled diplomatic trips to focus on disaster preparedness
- 707 municipalities reviewed evacuation plans
Future Risks
- Despite lifting the advisory, the risk of a megaquake remains significant
- Seismologists estimate a 70-80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake in the next 30 years
Preparedness Importance
- Continuous public education on earthquake preparedness is crucial
- Residents are encouraged to secure homes and review evacuation routes
What the papers say
According to The Japan Times, the advisory was lifted after no abnormal seismic activity was detected, but officials emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stated, 'It is important for everyone to continue securing furniture and checking evacuation sites.' Meanwhile, The Independent highlighted the public's confusion and fear during the advisory period, noting that many rushed to stock up on emergency supplies. Mari Yamaguchi reported that the government had called on municipalities to review their disaster response measures, indicating a proactive approach to future risks. Al Jazeera echoed these sentiments, stating that while normal life can resume, the risk of a major earthquake has not been eliminated.
How we got here
The advisory was issued on August 8, 2024, after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck off Kyushu, raising concerns about a potential megaquake along the Nankai Trough. This region has a history of devastating earthquakes, prompting the government to take precautionary measures.
Go deeper
- What measures are being taken for future earthquake preparedness?
- How did the public react to the megaquake advisory?
- What is the history of earthquakes in the Nankai Trough?
More on these topics
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Japan is an island country of East Asia in the northwest Pacific Ocean. It borders the Sea of Japan to the west and extends from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south.
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Fumio Kishida is a Japanese politician and the former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan from 2012 to 2017. He is a member of the House of Representatives and the Liberal Democratic Party.
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The Japan Meteorological Agency, abbreviated JMA, is an agency of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. It is charged with gathering and providing results for the public in Japan that are obtained from data based on daily scientific