TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida canceled a planned trip to Central Asia on Friday to lead the government’s response after scientists urged people to prepare for a possible “megaquake” off the country’s southern coast.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued its first ever “megaquake advisory” on Thursday warning of a possible future major earthquake triggered by the underwater Nankai Trough, after a magnitude 7.1 quake shook just off the eastern coast of Kyushu island earlier in the day. The trough, which runs along Japan’s Pacific coast, was the source of past devastating earthquakes.
Seismologists at the agency held an emergency meeting after Thursday’s quake to analyze whether it had affected the nearby trough and reassessed the risk of a major quake. They urged people to observe high caution levels for about a week.
Thursday’s quake injured 16 people, most of them slightly, and caused no major damage. Tsunami advisories were issued for several areas but lifted hours later.
Kishida announced that he had canceled his planned Aug. 9-12 trip to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia as a result of the advisory.
“I have decided to stay in the country at least for about a week to make sure that government measures and communication are fully in place,” Kishida said.
The Fire and Disaster Management Agency instructed 707 municipalities designated as at risk from a Nankai Trough quake to review their disaster response measures and evacuation plans.
The meteorological agency’s first “megaquake advisory” sparked public unease and prompted local government offices, rail operators and other agencies to begin introducing precautionary measures, affecting holiday travelers during the summer “Obon” holiday week.
The popular seaside town of Shirahama in Wakayama prefecture said its four beaches, outdoor hot springs, parks and other facilities will be closed for the next week. An annual fireworks festival planned for Saturday was canceled.
Aoshima, another popular beach resort in Miyazaki prefecture, which was hardest hit by Thursday’s quake, was also closed.
Rail companies serving the region said their trains will operate at slightly reduced speeds as a precautionary measure.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has canceled his planned trip to Asia following warnings from scientists about the possibility of a “megaquake” hitting Japan. The decision comes as experts have raised concerns about the potential for a major earthquake to strike the country in the near future.
The cancellation of Kishida’s trip underscores the seriousness of the situation and highlights the government’s commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens. The Prime Minister’s decision to stay in Japan and address the potential threat of a megaquake demonstrates strong leadership and a proactive approach to disaster preparedness.
The warnings from scientists about a potential megaquake in Japan are based on recent seismic activity and geological data that suggest an increased risk of a major earthquake occurring in the region. The potential impact of such an event could be devastating, with the potential for widespread destruction, loss of life, and disruption to critical infrastructure.
In response to these warnings, the Japanese government has been working diligently to enhance its earthquake preparedness and response capabilities. This includes implementing early warning systems, conducting regular drills and exercises, and investing in infrastructure improvements to mitigate the impact of a major earthquake.
Despite these efforts, the threat of a megaquake remains a significant concern for Japan, given its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its high levels of seismic activity. The country has a long history of earthquakes, including the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that caused widespread damage and loss of life.
In light of these risks, it is crucial for the Japanese government to continue to prioritize disaster preparedness and invest in measures to protect its citizens from the potential impact of a megaquake. This includes ensuring that buildings and infrastructure are built to withstand seismic activity, developing robust emergency response plans, and educating the public on how to stay safe during an earthquake.
As Japan faces the threat of a potential megaquake, it is essential for the government, scientists, and citizens to work together to ensure the country is as prepared as possible for such an event. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, Japan can minimize the impact of a major earthquake and protect the safety and well-being of its people.
