A looming threat of a major earthquake along a fault line near Japan’s east coast has been flagged by the Seismological Society of China, raising concerns about potential devastation and economic repercussions. The warning comes in the wake of a 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan’s Kyushu island, causing tremors in the Nankai Trough.
Experts from the China Earthquake Administration warn that a rupture in a specific area of the fault line could trigger a major earthquake, potentially exceeding a magnitude of 8.5 and reaching up to 9.1. This catastrophic event could unleash a tsunami exceeding 33 feet in height, resulting in widespread destruction and claiming the lives of an estimated 3.2 lakh people. Additionally, the earthquake could displace 95 lakh individuals, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
The economic impact of such a disaster would be equally devastating. Key economic centers, including the Chugoku and Kansai clusters, which are home to 70% of Japan’s manufacturing, are located near the Nankai Trough. A major earthquake in this region would not only cripple Japan’s manufacturing sector but also disrupt the global supply chain, potentially leading to economic losses exceeding 220 trillion yen (₹ 125 lakh crore) – twice Japan’s annual budget.
The August 8th earthquake in Kyushu, although not causing extensive damage, served as a stark reminder of the seismic vulnerability of the region. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a warning about an increased likelihood of a major earthquake in the coming week, prompting travel cancellations, including a planned visit to Central Asia by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The warning will be withdrawn if no major earthquake occurs by August 15th afternoon.
Japan’s Earthquake Research Committee has cautioned that a strong earthquake could impact numerous towns across several regions, potentially affecting over 100 towns with a devastating tsunami. The Kyushu region, known for its semiconductor industry, houses over 200 manufacturers and contributes to nearly half of Japan’s semiconductor production. The potential earthquake poses a significant threat to this crucial industry, further exacerbating the economic impact of the disaster.
The looming threat of a major earthquake near Japan’s east coast highlights the importance of preparedness and mitigation measures. With a potential for widespread devastation and economic turmoil, the global community is watching with concern as Japan braces for a potential seismic catastrophe.
