Written By Lisa Murimi
Japan has lifted its warning about a potential “megaquake” just one week after it was issued.
The warning, which advised citizens to be alert but not evacuate, had highlighted an elevated risk of a major earthquake, though it was not deemed imminent.
The government has now declared that special precautions are no longer necessary, and the public can resume normal activities.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported no new seismic activity suggesting imminent danger, leading to the decision to lift the warning.
Disaster Management Minister Yoshifumi Matsumura confirmed that there were no abnormalities in seismic activity or crustal deformation.
However, he cautioned that while the immediate risk has lessened, the possibility of a major earthquake remains.
Last week’s warning came shortly after a 7.1 magnitude quake struck off Kyushu’s southern coast, near the Nankai Trough—a seismic hotspot stretching along Japan’s Pacific coast.
The alert had led to significant disruptions, including cancellations of trips, stockpiling of essentials, and reductions in bullet train speeds.
Japan has historically experienced devastating megaquakes along the Nankai Trough, with the last significant event occurring in 1946.
Experts estimate a 70% to 80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake in the next 30 years, potentially causing severe casualties and damage.
