Japan on Edge: Scientists Warn 82% Chance of Megaquake That Could Kill 300,000
The Japanese government warns that a megaquake in the Nankai Trough could kill up to 300,000 people unless more preparation is made. In January, a government panel raised the quake’s likelihood to 75–82 percent.
In March, estimates said such a quake and the resulting tsunami could cause up to $2 trillion in damages and nearly 300,000 fatalities. The 2014 disaster plan aimed to cut deaths by 80%, but recent updates suggest current efforts will reduce the toll by only 20%.
To improve readiness, the government recommends building evacuation structures, embankments, and increasing disaster drills. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stressed the need for cooperation across all sectors to save lives.