The Japanese meteorological service claims that the seismic zone known as the Nankai Trough along Japan’s Pacific coast is at increased risk for a big earthquake. The organization said on Thursday that compared to earlier estimates, the probability of such a catastrophic earthquake happening has increased. This disclosure has caused public worries and spurred debates on strategies to reduce the possible effects.
Known for its seismic activity, the Nankai Trough has a past of producing somewhat strong earthquakes. Movement between two tectonic plates—the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate—which cross in this area causes these vibrations. For Japan, which is near this subduction zone, the agency’s declaration acts as a warning flag.
Although professionals have been observing the Nankai Trough for many years, new research shows an increase in the possible risk. Researcher Masanobu Shishikura of the Geological Survey of Japan clarified this issue saying, “We have observed a substantial amount of stress accumulating along the Nankai Trough, which could trigger a massive earthquake.” This growing tension highlights even more the need of readiness and preparation in the impacted areas.
One cannot stress the possible influence of a big earthquake along the Nankai Trough. Given its position, such a catastrophe may have terrible effects for Japan. Senior official Hirokazu Kitahara of the Japan Meteorological Agency emphasized the possible consequences, stating, “if a large-scale earthquake were to occur, it could generate a massive tsunami, affecting coastal areas and perhaps leading to widespread destruction.”
Japanese government is stepping up its efforts to increase disaster readiness in order to allay these worries. Along coastal local governments are creating plans and tactics to guarantee the protection of their citizens. Among these steps include improving evacuation paths, putting early warning systems in place, and doing exercises to teach people appropriate emergency responses.
To further handle the possible hazards, the Japanese government is also closely working with foreign specialists. Aiming to increase knowledge of the area and distribute knowledge on how to minimize the damage of future earthquakes, the Nankai Trough Earthquake Science project—an worldwide endeavor with scientists from several nations—aims to
The warning sent by the Japanese meteorological office acts as a wake-up call for authorities as well as people to give safety precautions a priority. It should remind the people to be educated, be ready with emergency kits, and design an evacuation strategy including their family. These preventive steps can help to greatly reduce the likely negative consequences of a big earthquake.
