Japanese authorities have officially rescinded the megaquake advisory for the country’s northeastern coastline, one week after a significant magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off the coast of northern Japan. The decision, announced Tuesday through a joint press conference by the Japan Meteorological Agency and Cabinet Office, indicates a reduced probability of a subsequent catastrophic earthquake in the region.
The advisory, initially issued following the seismic event near Aomori Prefecture and southern Hokkaido, had prompted residents to maintain heightened preparedness measures. These included sleeping in day clothes with emergency helmets, footwear, and grab bags readily accessible. With the lifting of this advisory, such stringent precautions are no longer formally recommended, though officials emphasize that seismic risks persist.
While the immediate threat of a magnitude 8 or larger earthquake has diminished, authorities continue to urge residents to maintain vigilant preparedness. The recent quake resulted in over 40 minor injuries and structural damage to dozens of homes, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. Tsunami warnings were activated with waves reaching 70 centimeters (27 inches), though no significant tsunami damage occurred.
The current advisory system for the Hokkaido-Sanriku area, implemented in 2022, represents lessons learned from Japan’s devastating 2011 magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami. This improved system successfully prevented public panic during the recent event, contrasting with the chaotic response to the 2024 “Nankai Trough” advisory that triggered widespread panic buying and business disruptions.