Japan lifts its megaquake advisory but urges caution a week after magnitude 7.5 temblor

Japan lifts megaquake advisory for northeastern coast

TOKYO — Japan has lifted a megaquake advisory for the northeastern coast, a week after a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck off northern Japan, leading to an increased risk of another major quake.

Residents in the previously designated area are no longer required to sleep in their day clothes with helmets and grab bags nearby in case of a magnitude 8 or larger quake.

Although the probability of a megaquake has slightly decreased, officials emphasize that the risk has not completely vanished, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared.

The megaquake advisory was issued after a magnitude 7.5 earthquake hit off the coast of Aomori, causing minor damage and injuries. Tsunami alerts were issued, but no significant damage was reported.

In 2024, Japan issued a first-ever “Nankai Trough” megaquake advisory for the Pacific coastline, sparking panic buying and event cancellations.

Lessons from the 2011 disaster prompted the introduction of advisories for the Hokkaido-Sanriku area in 2022 following a devastating magnitude 9.0 quake and tsunami.