Alert in Japan for possible megathrust earthquake after 7.1 magnitude quake.

In an alarming turn of events, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a precautionary alert for the possibility of a megathrust earthquake in the Nankai Trough, just south of Honshu Island. The warning comes just hours after a strong earthquake of magnitude 7.1 shook the coasts of Kyushu Island, generating a tsunami alert that put authorities and the local population on high alert. This seismic event, which occurred at 4:42 PM local time, was recorded at a depth of approximately 18 miles. The earthquake had its epicenter in Miyazaki Prefecture, where, although only three injuries and minor damages were reported, the anxiety among the population is palpable. Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, stated that there have been no reports of power outages or significant damage to water or communication systems. However, local police have received reports of at least ten incidents of damage, indicating that the situation, while controlled, deserves attention. Seismologists in the region convened urgently to assess the possible connection between this tremor and the feared Nankai Trough, historically known to be the source of some of the most devastating earthquakes in Japan. In this context, the Meteorological Agency quickly issued a warning for "megathrust earthquakes," noting that the likelihood of a major earthquake in the area is higher than usual, although its imminence cannot be predicted. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has urged the public to be cautious and prepare for any eventuality. In a press conference, Kishida called on all citizens to carefully review the information issued by the government and to be ready to evacuate should the situation worsen. The authorities emphasized the importance of ongoing preparedness for earthquakes, a common phenomenon in a country located in the Pacific Ring of Fire. The tsunami alert was issued immediately following the quake, urging residents in Kochi and Miyazaki Prefectures to evacuate coastal areas until the warning was lifted. Although the waves recorded were relatively low, reaching only 50 centimeters in some areas, caution is a fundamental principle given the region's history of disasters. Initial reports indicated that the port of Miyazaki had recorded a wave of that magnitude. Most reported damages have been minor, but they have included landslides and failures in traffic systems, adding a layer of complexity to the situation. In Kagoshima Prefecture, some concrete walls collapsed, and a wooden house was affected, indicating that although the magnitude of the quake was not catastrophic, it did pose certain risks. Among the injured, mainly two elderly women who fell were reported, as well as a factory worker who was struck by a falling object. These injuries, while minor, serve as a reminder that preparedness and caution are crucial in a country that lives in constant alert due to its seismic geography. The Nuclear Regulation Authority has declared that the 12 nuclear reactors located in Kyushu and Shikoku remain safe and operational. The safety of nuclear facilities is a significant concern, especially following the Fukushima disaster in 2011, which left an indelible mark on the country's collective consciousness. With a history marked by devastating earthquakes, Japan finds itself at a crossroads once again. The combination of the megathrust earthquake alert and the recent quake has heightened anxiety among citizens, who know that the possibility of a natural disaster is not just a theory, but a reality they could face at any moment. Authorities urge the population to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to ensure their safety in the face of the uncertainty posed by seismic activity.