Governor's Comments on Lifting the Special Caution Regarding “Nankai Trough Megaquake Advisory”

Following the August 8, 2024 earthquake with the epicenter in Hyuganada Sea, Miyazaki Prefecture, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued the Nankai Trough Earthquake Advisory (megaquake warning).

After one week, no unusual phenomena has been observed that could lead to a new major earthquake, and the likelihood of a subsequent earthquake decreases with time. On these grounds, Japan's minister of state for disaster management announced on August 15, “The government’s call for special precautions would be lifted at 17:00 today. We ask you to check your daily earthquake preparedness on a regular basis and be ready for a mega earthquake.”

Following this announcement, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will also close its Disaster Countermeasures Headquarters.

The probability of a Nankai Trough earthquake or an earthquake directly hitting the Tokyo metropolitan area is said to be 70 percent in the next 30 years, so it could happen at any time. With your family and loved ones, please make sure your furniture and other items are properly secured, check your evacuation routes and shelter locations, stockpile water and food, and ensure you have a means of communication with each other.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will continue to provide updates.

Koike Yuriko
Governor of Tokyo