98-foot tsunami, 2 lakh lives at risk, massive destruction; Japan issues megaquake advisory

New Delhi: Japan is currently grappling with the threat of earthquakes and tsunamis. Meanwhile, a megaquake advisory was issued there on Tuesday, 09 December 2025. This is considered a rare advisory. The warning was issued after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Aomori. While the earthquake did not cause significant damage, authorities fear the threat could escalate in the coming days. This is why the warning was issued. If a tsunami occurs, it could reach a height of 98 feet. It is feared that approximately two lakh people could be killed.

Japanese government warns about massive offshore earthquake

The Japanese government’s estimates include a warning that another massive offshore earthquake in the Hokkaido-Sanriku region could generate a tsunami up to 30 meters (98 feet) high. This could kill approximately 199,000 people. In addition, 220,000 buildings could be destroyed, and economic losses could reach approximately 31 trillion yen. If such a disaster occurs in winter, it is feared that up to 42,000 people could suffer from hypothermia. The advisory currently issued covers 182 municipalities, stretching from Hokkaido to Chiba Prefecture. This is one of the most geographically extensive warnings issued in recent years.

Fukushima nuclear crisis of 2011

Japanese authorities are haunted by the fear of 2011. That year, an earthquake caused widespread devastation, killing nearly 20,000 people and triggering the Fukushima nuclear crisis. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, there is a possibility of an earthquake of magnitude 8 or higher occurring next week. Therefore, people living in coastal areas have been advised to remain vigilant. They have also been advised to prepare emergency kits and be ready to evacuate quickly if necessary.

The 2011 tsunami, which reached heights of up to 15 meters (50 feet) in some areas, devastated coastal communities in Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima prefectures and crippled the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. This led to deep and long-lasting concerns about radiation.