Japan has officially lifted its warning regarding a potential “megaquake” just one week after issuing the alert. The initial warning advised citizens to remain vigilant without the need for evacuation, indicating an increased likelihood of a significant earthquake while confirming no immediate threat.
In the wake of the initial alert, thousands of residents preemptively canceled travel plans and stocked up on essential supplies, disrupting some high-speed rail services as a precautionary measure. Now, the government has announced that citizens can resume their normal routines, no longer requiring special precautions.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, there have been no signs of seismic activity that would suggest an elevated risk in the region suspected of being prone to the megaquake. Disaster management minister Yoshifumi Matsumura noted that while the warning has been rescinded, the potential for a major earthquake remains. He urged continued awareness but confirmed that all previous precautionary measures, such as readiness for immediate evacuation, are no longer necessary.
The escalated alert had followed a 7.1-magnitude earthquake near Kyushu last week, prompting experts to monitor the situation closely due to its location near the Nankai Trough, a historically active seismic area along Japan’s Pacific coast.
Reports showed that some stores had faced empty shelves and were forced to impose limits on items such as bottled water during the warning period. Additionally, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida canceled a planned trip to Central Asia, and some bullet trains operated at reduced speeds as a safety measure.
Considering the historical context, past earthquakes from the Nankai Trough have resulted in significant casualties and destruction. Experts estimate there is a 70% to 80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 earthquake occurring in the next three decades, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes, including loss of life and devastating tsunamis.
