Japan On Edge: Scientists Warn 82% Chance Of Megaquake That Could Kill 300,000

Japan on Alert: Experts Indicate 82% Probability of Megaquake That May Claim 300,000 Lives

The Japanese authorities caution that a megaquake in the Nankai Trough could result in the loss of up to 300,000 lives unless further preparations are undertaken. In January, a governmental panel increased the probability of such an earthquake to between 75% and 82%.

In March, projections indicated that this earthquake, along with the subsequent tsunami, could lead to damages amounting to $2 trillion and nearly 300,000 deaths. The disaster management plan established in 2014 aimed to reduce fatalities by 80%, but recent revisions indicate that current measures may only decrease the death toll by 20%.

To enhance preparedness, the government advocates for the construction of evacuation facilities, levees, and an increase in disaster response drills. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba underscored the importance of collaboration across all sectors to protect lives.