Japan Issues Megaquake Advisory Following 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake: Tsunami Risk and Preparedness Measures

Thirty-four people reported mild injuries following Monday's earthquake in Japan.

New Delhi:

Japan issued a megaquake advisory on Tuesday, following a 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck off Aomori's eastern coast on Monday. Aomori is the northernmost prefecture of Honshu island, just south of Hokkaido. The quake resulted in 34 mild injuries and some damage to infrastructure. According to Associated Press, officials clarified that this advisory is not a prediction, with only about 1% probability of a magnitude 8 or larger earthquake occurring.

Officials intend for this advisory to serve as a preparedness reminder for potential devastation similar to the 9.0 magnitude earthquake in 2011 that claimed nearly 20,000 lives.

The report indicated an elevated risk of a subsequent larger earthquake of magnitude 8 or greater within the coming week. Authorities urged residents, particularly those in coastal regions, to maintain readiness with emergency supplies for immediate evacuation if a larger earthquake occurs.

Japan's meteorological agency stated that Monday's earthquake temporarily increased potential risks in Hokkaido and along the Sanriku coast, where the Pacific Plate beneath Japan forms the Japan Trench and Chishima Trench. These geological formations have historically caused numerous large earthquakes.

Experts noted that the 2011 catastrophe resulted from movement associated with the Japan Trench. The meteorological agency reported that the massive March 11 earthquake in 2011 occurred just two days after a magnitude 7.3 temblor at the Japan Trench off Iwate's eastern coast, an area severely impacted in both that disaster and Monday's quake.

Government projections suggest another offshore megaquake in the Hokkaido-Sanriku region could generate tsunami waves up to 98 feet, potentially causing approximately 200,000 fatalities, destroying up to 220,000 structures, and resulting in economic damages reaching $198 billion (31 trillion yen).

An estimated 42,000 people could suffer from hypothermia during winter months. Tuesday's advisory encompasses areas across 182 municipalities from Hokkaido to Chiba prefecture.

The designated municipalities have published advisory information on their websites and begun inspecting emergency relief supplies and evacuation center equipment.

(With inputs from agencies)