Following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake off the coast of Miyazaki Prefecture on Monday (Jan. 13), Japanese earthquake experts have cautioned that the likelihood of a "mega earthquake" in the country is gradually increasing. They urged citizens to enhance their daily disaster preparedness.
The recent earthquake-triggered eight aftershocks, mainly concentrated in the Hyuga-nada region. In addition, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency, another earthquake with a magnitude of 5.4 occurred in the waters near Miyazaki Prefecture at 2:12 a.m. local time on Jan. 15. The tremor, with a maximum seismic intensity of 4, had an epicenter depth of 30 kilometers.
The Hyuga-nada region experienced a magnitude 7.1 earthquake on Aug. 8, 2024. Kyoto University Assistant Professor Yusuke Yamashita, an expert in seismology, explained that seismic activity in the area has been frequent since last year's earthquake. He believes Monday's quake might have been an aftershock of that event, originating from an unbroken section of the tectonic plate boundary.
Fukuwa Nobuo, an emeritus professor at Nagoya University and a contributor to Japan's emergency information system, highlighted that the risk of a massive Nankai Trough earthquake is indeed rising. He urged residents to review evacuation routes, secure household furniture, and strengthen daily earthquake preparedness measures.
Related News:
Japan faces risk of massive earthquake as recent 6.9 magnitude quake hits near nuclear plants
20 cm tsunami observed in Japan's Miyazaki after 6.9-magnitude quake
Comment