Why is Japan on high alert for ‘megaquake’ after tsunami warning?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nJapan has reportedly issued a warning of an increased risk of a major earthquake in the coming week. This comes after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the north-eastern coast. That led to evacuation orders and warnings of 3-metre (10 ft) tsunami waves. <\/p>\n
Given the severity of the situation, thousands of people were told to abandon coastal areas and move to higher ground after the earthquake struck in the waters off Iwate Prefecture, about 530 km (330 miles) north of Tokyo. <\/p>\n
The largest tsunami wave measured 80 cm. Tsunami warnings and advisories remained in place for several hours after Monday’s earthquake.<\/p>\n
In this regard, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a warning that “even stronger aftershocks may occur in the next week, causing large waves”.<\/p>\n
Following a significant undersea earthquake off the coast of Japan, officials have warned that the risk of a megaquake measuring 8.0 or greater has now increased. <\/p>\n
More than 170,000 people in several prefectures were ordered to higher ground or evacuate buildings.<\/p>\n
Initial warnings reached the second highest alert level before being downgraded and eventually lifted at midnight. <\/p>\n
Bullet train services were disrupted and about 100 homes lost power, although no major damage or injuries were immediately reported. <\/p>\n
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km, mainly affecting the main island of Honshu and the northern region of Hokkaido. Residents reported mild shaking, but remained on high alert due to loudspeaker warnings from local authorities. <\/p>\n
Public concern remains high due to memories of the 9.0 magnitude earthquake in 2011, which caused a devastating tsunami, killing 18,000 people and causing the Fukushima nuclear disaster. <\/p>\n
Located on the “Ring of Fire”, Japan accounts for 10% of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or greater, experiencing about 1,500 aftershocks annually. <\/p>\n
Additionally, the accident at Fukushima is one of the most devastating nuclear incidents in history. The government has issued a strict warning to people to stay safe and avoid going to higher places.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n