Jun 5, 2025
A recent wave of moderate earthquakes off the coast of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, has reignited fears of a potential megaquake. The strongest tremor—a magnitude 6.3—was quickly followed by a 4.7 quake just 16 minutes later on June 3, 2025. These quakes, centered near the Chishima Trench, prompted authorities to issue warnings and urge residents to prepare, despite scientists noting that earthquakes remain difficult to predict. Japan, located on the volatile Ring of Fire, is no stranger to seismic threats. A five-year study by Japan’s marine-earth science agency and regional universities has warned of a possible magnitude-8.8 quake due to centuries of accumulated strain along the Chishima fault line.
Though recent tremors have caused little damage, officials are taking no chances. The government is encouraging residents to stockpile supplies and review evacuation routes as part of broader preparedness efforts. The Japan Meteorological Agency also highlighted the Nankai Trough as another major concern, estimating a 70-80% chance of a magnitude 8-9 quake in the next 30 years. A government report warns that such an event could kill nearly 300,000 people and inflict $1.8 trillion in damages. Japan’s painful memory of the 2011 Tōhoku disaster and the August 2024 Kyushu quake underscores the urgency. While scientists urge calm, the nation remains on high alert, determined to minimize the human and economic toll of any future catastrophe.
Stay Awake. Keep Watch.
SOURCE: End Time Headlines