Japan urges preparedness for potential Nankai trough megaquake; expert warns against panic buying
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.