Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has decided to cancel his trip to Central Asia after experts warned of an increased risk of a major earthquake along the Nankai Trough. The decision came after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit Kyushu, injuring eight people and triggering a tsunami warning. Kishida had been scheduled to visit Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia but chose to remain in Japan to oversee crisis management efforts.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a warning about the heightened risk of a Pacific coast “megaquake” following the recent earthquake in Kyushu. While the likelihood of a major earthquake is higher than normal, it is not a guarantee that one will occur. The Nankai Trough, where the warning is focused, has a history of triggering large tsunamis with previous earthquakes.
Japan, known for its frequent seismic activity, experiences around 1,500 earthquakes a year. The country is well-prepared with advanced building techniques and emergency response procedures to minimize the impact of tremors. However, there is still a significant risk of a megaquake along the Nankai Trough, potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of lives.
The Japanese government has previously stated a 70 percent chance of a major earthquake occurring within the next 30 years. The threat highlights the need for continued preparedness and vigilance in the face of natural disasters. Prime Minister Kishida’s decision to stay in Japan underscores the seriousness of the situation and the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens.
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