Japanese scientists have raised the estimated likelihood of a massive earthquake in the Nankai Trough to 82%, warning that such

a disaster could result in nearly 300,000 deaths and up to $2 trillion in damages. While previous preparedness plans aimed to

cut the potential death toll by 80%, recent updates suggest current efforts would only reduce it by about 20%, according to

local reports. The government is urging citizens, municipalities, and organizations to improve emergency readiness.

The Nankai Trough, located off Japan’s Pacific coast, is a known seismic hotspot where major earthquakes have occurred every 100 to 200

years for over a millennium—the last one striking in 1946. To prevent mass casualties, authorities recommend rapid improvements in infrastructure,

such as evacuation buildings, embankments, and frequent drills to ensure citizens are ready when disaster strikes.

Concerns have grown recently due to social media-fueled rumors and even fictional sources, such as a manga predicting a catastrophe on July 5, 2025.

These fears have led to a dip in tourism from certain regions, including an 11.2% drop in Hong Kong visitors. However, scientists from Japan’s Meteorological

Agency have emphasized that it remains impossible to predict exact earthquake timing or location and urge the public to remain calm but prepared.

Japan is still haunted by the memory of the 2011 magnitude 9.0 quake and resulting tsunami, which caused over 15,000 deaths and triggered

a meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant. Experts warn that a Nankai Trough megaquake could be even more destructive, underscoring

the importance of proactive measures to protect lives and property before disaster strikes.