Japan on Alert: Is a Megaquake Looming After Recent Earthquake?

On Monday, a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck north-eastern Japan, leading authorities to issue warnings about the possibility of an impending megaquake. This phenomenon refers to the anticipated big one, which is expected to occur roughly once every century.

Authorities have stated that there is a 60-90% chance of a megaquake happening in the Nankai Trough region, known for its significant seismic activity, within the next 30 years.

Warnings earlier in the year noted that a megaquake could trigger tsunamis and potential fatalities numbering in the hundreds of thousands, desperate economic impacts, and large-scale evacuations.

Officials across seven prefectures are urging residents to remain vigilant. Precautionary measures include checking evacuation routes and emergency supplies, despite no mandatory evacuation order being issued.

Japan regularly experiences around 1,500 earthquakes annually, with catastrophic events occurring sporadically throughout its history, including the notable 2011 disaster which resulted in over 18,000 deaths.

Government officials from northern Hokkaido to Chiba have called for heightened alertness regarding a potential follow-up earthquake, which experts suggest could surpass a magnitude of 8. No evacuation has been mandated, but the advice emphasizes preparation.

Japan is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, leading to high seismic activity, with several megathrust earthquakes having occurred historically. The last significant events affecting the region were in 1944 and 1946. The potential for a future disaster remains a concern among geologists.

According to experts, precise predictions of earthquakes remain scientifically unfounded. While warnings can notify populations to prepare, the specific occurrence of catastrophic seismic events cannot be forecasted with certainty.