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Nankai Trough

Stay updated with the latest news and articles about Nankai Trough.

Latest Articles

Japan issues special advisory on Nankai Trough megaquake: urgent preparations advised

Japan ·

The Nankai Trough, a significant underwater trench stretching approximately 700 kilometers from Suruga Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture to the Hyuganada Sea in Miyazaki Prefecture, is a known seismic hotspot due to the subduction of the Philippine Sea Plate beneath a landward plate. This subduction process, occurring at a rate of 3 to 5 centimeters annually, results in the accumulation of tectonic strain, which typically releases in massive earthquakes roughly every 100 to 150 years.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Kochi prefecture faces urgent challenge in evacuating elderly ahead of Nankai trough tsunami

Japan ·

In Nakatosa, Kochi Prefecture, the situation is particularly dire. Kohei Kiyooka, 39, a disaster prevention staffer at a local nursing home, described the heightened urgency following the recent advisory. With many residents reliant on wheelchairs or bedridden, the absence of nearby high ground adds to the urgency. Kiyooka has proactively secured seven “tsunami lifeboats” from the town—each capable of carrying 20 people—as a contingency measure. Despite these preparations, the challenge remains in securing alternative accommodation and ensuring timely evacuation. “We urgently need to discuss with the prefectural and central governments about securing alternative shelters,” Kiyooka emphasized.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Evacuation shelters activated across four Japanese prefectures amid Nankai trough earthquake advisory

Japan ·

As of Sunday, approximately half of the shelters had closed, leaving 65 shelters still operational, with 22 evacuees. Notably, in Tosashimizu, Kochi Prefecture, where a potential tsunami height of up to 34 meters is anticipated, around 15 elderly residents took refuge in a local shelter. Similarly, in Tosa, Kochi, a welfare shelter was set up in a senior care facility to accommodate bedridden elderly individuals.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Bon holidays commence amidst Nankai trough megaquake advisory: tourism and safety measures in focus

Japan ·

At JR Tokyo Station, the Tokaido Shinkansen platforms were bustling with families and young people embarking on their journeys. Among them was a 21-year-old university student from Matsudo, Chiba Prefecture, traveling to Osaka. "My hometown is near the sea. I don’t know the evacuation sites and routes, so I want to look those up," he noted, reflecting a broader sense of caution among travelers.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Japan urges preparedness for potential Nankai trough megaquake; expert warns against panic buying

Japan ·

This alert, marking the JMA’s inaugural issuance of such a warning, reflects an increased likelihood of a devastating megaquake in the Nankai Trough region. Naoshi Hirata, professor emeritus at the University of Tokyo and chair of the Nankai Trough Earthquake Assessment Committee, emphasized the heightened risk, stating that the probability of a major quake occurring has risen substantially. Hirata’s comments, made during a press conference, highlighted the need for vigilance despite the warning’s current status.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Tsunami hits Japan’s Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures following Southern Japan earthquake

Japan ·

The JMA has also issued Nankai Trough Earthquake Extra Information as part of its ongoing assessment of the seismic situation. This alert is intended to evaluate the likelihood of a subsequent megaquake in the Nankai Trough region, which has historically been prone to large-scale seismic events. The agency is closely monitoring the situation and analyzing data to determine any potential connections between the recent earthquake and the seismic activity in the Nankai Trough.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi addresses impact of Miyazaki earthquake and Nankai trough connection

Japan ·

In addition to assessing the local impact, Hayashi indicated that the government is also examining the potential relationship between this earthquake and seismic activity associated with the Nankai Trough. The Nankai Trough, a well-known seismic zone off Japan's southeastern coast, has been closely monitored due to its history of generating major earthquakes. Hayashi’s remarks suggest that officials are investigating whether this recent quake could be linked to the broader seismic patterns of the Nankai Trough, which could have implications for future quake risks in the region.

By Ishita Agarwal
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Japan Meteorological Agency issues rare Nankai trough earthquake alert following Miyazaki quake

Japan ·

The Nankai Trough, a major seismic zone off Japan's southeastern coast, is known for its potential to generate large-scale earthquakes, which could significantly impact the surrounding areas. The JMA's decision to release this extra information underscores the heightened concern regarding seismic activity in the region. The alert aims to assess the likelihood of a powerful aftershock or megaquake in the Nankai Trough, a scenario that could pose substantial risks to both infrastructure and public safety.

By Ishita Agarwal