Japan Ends Megaquake Advisory After Nankai Trough Tremors Subside

Japan has ended its megaquake advisory after a week of heightened seismic activity in the Nankai Trough zone prompted the government to issue its first such warning. While normalcy returns, the country remains vigilant due to the predicted likelihood of a significant quake in the future.

Japan has lifted its advisory for heightened earthquake risk after a week marked by strong tremors near the Nankai Trough. This comes after citizens were cautioned to review evacuation procedures following a magnitude-7.1 quake in the southwest.

Yoshifumi Matsumura, the state minister for disaster management, confirmed no abnormal seismic activity in the Nankai Trough zone, allowing the country to resume normal life. Despite the advisory's end, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had already prioritized disaster management over diplomatic engagements.

Recent seismic activities and typhoon threats still pose challenges, with Japan's long-term predictions indicating a significant chance of a major quake within the next 30 years. The potential impact of such a disaster could result in extensive casualties and economic damage.

(With inputs from agencies.)