Japan has issued an unprecedented warning of an increased risk of a major earthquake following a 7.1 magnitude tremor off Kyushu’s coast.
The advisory, which was announced Thursday night, urges residents to stay alert but not to evacuate. Authorities stress that while the probability of a large earthquake is higher than usual, it is not imminent.
The recent quake, although causing no significant damage, has raised concerns due to its proximity to the Nankai Trough—a seismic hotspot along Japan’s Pacific coast known for generating devastating megaquakes.
The last major quake in this area occurred in 1946, and experts predict a 70% to 80% chance of another magnitude 8 or 9 event in the next 30 years.The advisory, the lower of two alert levels, will remain in effect for a week.
Residents are advised to review evacuation routes and ensure they have sufficient supplies, but officials encourage them to continue with their daily lives while remaining vigilant.
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