Days After Myanmar Earthquake, Japan Warns Of Megaquake That Could Kill 300,000, Trigger Massive Tsunamis

Last Updated:April 01, 2025, 10:48 IST

Japan has issued a warning about a potential megaquake that could kill over 300,000 people and cause a devastating tsunami. The quake could result in trillions of dollars in economic losses

The report indicates that if a magnitude 9 earthquake occurs, 1.3 million people may need to be evacuated, which is 10 per cent of Japan's total population. (AI-Generated)

The world is still reeling from the catastrophic earthquake in Myanmar-Thailand when Japan issued a new warning. According to a report from Japan’s government agency, a megaquake could occur, potentially killing over 300,000 people instantly. This event could trigger a tsunami and cause widespread destruction in numerous countries.

Japan’s New Megaquake Warning

On Monday, the Japanese government released a report cautioning that a long-anticipated megaquake could hit the country’s Pacific coast, resulting in a devastating tsunami. This earthquake could flatten hundreds of buildings.

Last year, Japan issued its first warning about a potential megaquake, predicting that after a 7.1 magnitude quake near the trough, a 9-magnitude earthquake could follow. If such an event transpires, Japan’s economy could face losses in the trillions of dollars, effectively obliterating half of Japan’s GDP.

Consequently, preparations have intensified to address this potential disaster.

Potential Impact And Evacuations

The report indicates that if a magnitude 9 earthquake occurs, 1.3 million people may need to be evacuated, which is 10 percent of Japan’s total population. If the earthquake happens at night during winter, 298,000 people could perish due to the tsunami and collapsing buildings.

Japan is located in one of the world’s most dangerous seismic zones, with an 80 percent likelihood of an 8 to 9 magnitude earthquake occurring in the sea area.

Geological Factors

This seismic trough extends about 900 km (600 miles) from Japan’s southwest Pacific coast, where the Philippine Sea plate is subducting beneath the Eurasian plate. A megaquake can occur approximately every 100 to 150 years due to the accumulation of tectonic stress.

In 2011, a magnitude 9 earthquake caused a devastating tsunami and the meltdown of three reactors at a nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan, resulting in over 15,000 deaths.

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News world Days After Myanmar Earthquake, Japan Warns Of Megaquake That Could Kill 300,000, Trigger Massive Tsunamis