What is a Nankai Trough Earthquake?

A Nankai Trough earthquake is a massive earthquake that occurs in the Nankai Trough, located in southern Japan. These earthquakes have struck in the past, such as in 1707 and 1944, causing significant damage. Historically, major earthquakes have occurred in this region every 100 to 150 years. Experts estimate that there is a 70-80% chance of a magnitude 8-9 earthquake occurring within the next 30 years.

The Earthquake on August 8, 2024, and “Nankai Trough Earthquake Temporary Information”

On August 8, 2024, an earthquake occurred in areas such as Kyushu and Shikoku. For the first time, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued the “Nankai Trough Earthquake Temporary Information.” This information indicated a relatively higher possibility of a large-scale earthquake compared to normal times, prompting a “Major Earthquake Warning.” Special caution is advised in a wide area across 29 prefectures.

If the Nankai Trough Earthquake Occurs, what to Watch Out for in Hokkaido

If a Nankai Trough earthquake occurs, strong tremors are expected over a wide area along the Pacific coast from Kanto to Kyushu, and massive tsunamis could hit some coastal areas.

In Hokkaido, a tremor of about seismic intensity level 3 is expected. (Level 3 is the third level in a nine-level seismic intensity scale.) Therefore, significant damage is not anticipated, but caution is necessary for tsunamis in coastal areas.

Useful Tools for Foreign Visitors During Disasters

You never know when an earthquake might strike. Let’s consider together what precautions to take if an earthquake occurs during your trip to Japan.

Safety tips APP

The “Safety tips” app provides disaster information for foreign travelers, including emergency earthquake warnings and tsunami alerts through push notifications. It supports 15 languages and offers easy access to useful information during disasters. It includes links to necessary information, so be sure to download it in advance.

• Website: https://www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/eng/index.html

JNTO (Japan Safe Travel) Social Media

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides necessary information during disasters through its social media accounts. Follow them on Twitter or Weibo.

• X Account: @JapanSafeTravel
• Weibo Account: 安心访日JapanSafeTravel

Japan Visitor Hotline

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) offers a 24-hour phone hotline available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. It can be used not only in the event of an earthquake but also in emergencies such as accidents or illnesses and for general tourist information.

• Phone Number: 050-3816-2787

NHK World JAPAN

NHK World JAPAN is a broadcasting service that provides the latest news from Japan and Asia, with 24-hour English programming. It can be used as a source of information in English during major disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.

• Website: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/

Be Prepared and Stay Safe During Your Trip!

Currently, there are no reports of unusual seismic activity, but earthquakes can happen at any time. Therefore, it is important to be prepared and gather accurate information. Make sure to access appropriate disaster preparedness information to ensure your safety during your stay in Japan.