Japan Faces Increased Earthquake Risk: Experts Estimate 82% Chance of Megaquake

A mysterious underwater structure known as the Yonaguni Monument, located off the coast of Japan, has raised significant interest due to its age and potential implications for our understanding of ancient societies. Discovered in 1986 and situated approximately 25 meters below sea level near the Ryukyu Islands, the monument is approximately 27 meters long and 27 meters wide, resembling a pyramid with sharp-angled steps. Recent tests suggest the stone structure is over 12,000 years old, challenging traditional beliefs that advanced architecture developed only after the advent of agriculture around that time. According to The New York Post, debates have erupted among scholars regarding whether the monument is man-made or the result of natural formations. Notable figures like author Graham Hancock advocate for the idea of intentional design, pointing to features that resemble steps and carvings, while skeptics, including archaeologist Flint Dibble, argue against this perspective. The findings surrounding the Yonaguni Monument could significantly alter historical timelines and suggest the existence of lost civilizations akin to the fabled Atlantis.

A recent government report warns that Japan's economy could incur losses of up to ¥270.3 trillion (approximately $1.8 trillion) due to a potential megaquake off its Pacific coast. The Cabinet Office indicated that this figure represents nearly half of the nation’s total GDP and has increased from a previous estimate of ¥214.2 trillion, attributing the rise to inflation and updated ground data, which expand expected flood areas. Japan, situated in a seismic hotspot, has an estimated 80% probability of experiencing a magnitude 8 to 9 earthquake along the Nankai Trough, a submerged zone stretching nearly 900 kilometers off the country’s southwest coast. In a worst-case scenario, the report projects up to 1.23 million evacuees, representing about 1% of Japan's population, and a death toll potentially reaching 298,000 if the quake occurs at night during winter. This advisory follows last year's heightened warnings after a magnitude-7.1 quake near the Trough, underscoring increasing seismic risks in the region, similar to the catastrophic 2011 disaster which resulted in over 15,000 fatalities.

A recent government report from Japan has raised alarms about a potential megaquake along the Nankai Trough, which could result in significant loss of life and extensive economic damage. According to the report, a magnitude 9 earthquake could kill approximately 300,000 individuals and lead to economic losses of around $1.81 trillion (approximately 270.3 trillion yen). This figure has increased from previous estimates due to new data, including inflation adjustments and updated flood zone mappings. The report suggests that if such an event occurs, Japan could see as many as 1.23 million evacuees, representing about 10% of the nation’s total population. Moreover, if the quake strikes at night during winter, the death toll could climb significantly due to the risk of tsunamis and collapsing buildings. The Japanese government reported an 80% probability of a magnitude 8 to 9 earthquake occurring in the Nankai Trough, a region prone to seismic activity due to tectonic plate interactions. Previous seismic events, including the catastrophic 2011 earthquake and tsunami, underline the gravity of these warnings.