Japan has escalated its seismic alert levels following a 7.1 magnitude earthquake near Kyushu, marking the first issuance of an increased risk warning for an impending “major earthquake.” The advisory, declared late Thursday, does not forecast an immediate seismic event but indicates a significant rise in the likelihood of one occurring soon. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant without necessitating an evacuation.
The recent quake’s epicenter, positioned at the Nankai Trough’s edge – a key site of seismic activity stretching from Suruga Bay to the Hyuganada Sea – has raised alarms. This area is historically known for generating megaquakes every 90 to 200 years, with the previous major quake recorded in 1946, leading to widespread devastation and loss of life.
According to projections by seismic experts, there’s a high probability, between 70% and 80%, that a quake between magnitudes 8 and 9 could strike this region within the next 30 years. Such an event could potentially result in catastrophic damage and over 200,000 deaths, primarily due to the ensuing tsunami, as per the Kyodo News agency’s analysis.
At a recent briefing, Japanese Meteorological Agency official Shinya Tsukada emphasized the advisory’s precautionary nature, stating that it reflects a “relatively higher chance” of another major earthquake occurring, though not imminently. The current alert level, which is the lower of two options, will be in force for one week, advising increased preparedness.
The government’s guidance for residents includes heightened alertness and voluntary evacuation for those at higher risk of being unable to escape quickly in an emergency. Meanwhile, all citizens are advised to continue normal activities with added caution, verifying that they have effective evacuation plans and adequate supplies for potential emergencies.