Tokyo on Alert: Massive Quake Could Claim 18,000 Lives
World
Japanese authorities have issued a troubling forecast: a major earthquake with a 70% probability of striking the Tokyo region in the coming decades could claim up to 18,000 lives and cause more than ¥83 trillion (approximately $535 billion) in economic damage.
The Japanese government has released an updated assessment of the potential impact of a magnitude 7.3 earthquake that could occur beneath Tokyo and nearby prefectures. The analysis, presented on December 5 and based on data from previous major quakes in the capital region, shows that the country remains at significant seismic risk.
According to experts, such an event could result in up to 18,000 fatalities, with around 400,000 buildings destroyed or severely damaged. An estimated 8.4 million people may face limited access to water, infrastructure, and emergency assistance.
The new forecast is somewhat lower than the government’s 2015 estimate, which projected 23,000 deaths and economic losses of ¥95 trillion. The reduction is attributed to improvements in earthquake-resistant construction and fire-prevention measures.
However, specialists warn that the overall danger remains extremely high: the probability of a powerful earthquake striking Tokyo within the next 30 years continues to be assessed at around 70%.
According to experts, such an event could result in up to 18,000 fatalities, with around 400,000 buildings destroyed or severely damaged. An estimated 8.4 million people may face limited access to water, infrastructure, and emergency assistance.
The new forecast is somewhat lower than the government’s 2015 estimate, which projected 23,000 deaths and economic losses of ¥95 trillion. The reduction is attributed to improvements in earthquake-resistant construction and fire-prevention measures.
However, specialists warn that the overall danger remains extremely high: the probability of a powerful earthquake striking Tokyo within the next 30 years continues to be assessed at around 70%.
Powered by Froala Editor