Japan Government Lists 3 High-Risk Areas for Major Earthquakes

Japan's government has identified three key regions at high risk of experiencing massive earthquakes, with the Nankai Trough posing the most significant threat. The nation, which experiences 20% of the world's magnitude 6 or greater earthquakes, is bracing for potential seismic events.

The Nankai Trough earthquake is predicted to have a magnitude of 8.0 to 9.0, with an alarming 80% probability of occurring within the next 30 years. This seismic event could result in nearly 300,000 deaths and damage to 2.35 million buildings. The report also warns of the potential for Mount Fuji to erupt, causing an estimated economic loss exceeding 146.6 trillion yen (approximately $302 trillion TWD).

Another critical area is the Kanto region, which faces a 70% chance of a magnitude 8.0 to 9.0 "direct inland" earthquake within 30 years. This scenario could lead to approximately 600,000 deaths and damage to 400,000 buildings, paralyzing the entire capital region and causing economic losses of over 83 trillion yen (approximately $1 trillion TWD).

The Japan Trench and Kuril Trench area also presents a risk, with an 7% to 40% chance of magnitude 8 or greater earthquakes within 30 years. Such an event could trigger a massive tsunami, comparable to the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, potentially causing around 300,000 deaths.

These assessments are based on the latest "Earthquake Disaster" evaluation report from the Central Disaster Prevention Council's earthquake research committee. The government urges residents in these areas to remain vigilant.