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Experts Warn of Potential Major Earthquake in Japan on July 5 Following Frequent Quakes

Experts Warn of Potential Major Earthquake in Japan on July 5 Following Frequent Quakes

Renowned Japanese manga artist Ryuujuu Ryou predicted a major earthquake would occur on July 5 in his work, The Future I Witnessed. Recently, the Tokara Islands off the coast of Kagoshima have experienced nearly 500 tremors within just a week, raising concerns among local residents.

Seismologist Kuo Kai-wen noted that Kikaijima, located south of the Tokara Islands, has seen four major earthquakes of magnitude 9 in the past 7,000 years, with an average recurrence interval of about 1,800 years. The last event occurred approximately 1,550 years ago, suggesting that the Ryukyu Trench could soon experience a magnitude 9 earthquake.

Kuo further explained that the Okinawa Trench can be divided into three sections: the northern section of the Tokara Islands, the central section of the Ryukyu Islands and Amami Oshima, and the southern section belonging to Taiwan. Historical records indicate that the Tokara Islands experienced a magnitude 8 earthquake in 1911, which triggered a tsunami reaching up to 5 meters, affecting the northern end of the Okinawa Trench but did not impact Taiwan.

Japan is highly concerned about potential earthquakes in the Nansha Trench, especially given the frequent seismic activity in the Tokara Islands. However, Kuo clarified that there is no geological connection between the Ryukyu Trench and the Nansha Trench, which both formed from the subduction of the Philippine Sea Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate, meaning they cannot trigger each other’s earthquakes.

The Meteorological Agency reminds the public to be knowledgeable about tsunami evacuation procedures. Although Taiwan rarely experiences major tsunamis, residents should remain vigilant. Coastal areas are equipped with tsunami evacuation maps, and the public is encouraged to familiarize themselves with these locations out of concern for disaster preparedness. Should a tsunami occur, the evacuation routes lead to higher ground or structurally sound buildings.

The Meteorological Agency emphasizes that while disasters cannot be predicted, preparation can reduce the risks and damage associated with such events.