Earthquake and Tsunami warnings in Japan

On New Year’s Day 2024, Japan was struck by a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 hit the west coast of Honshu, Japan’s largest island, causing severe damage and triggering a tsunami that impacted the northern coast of the Noto Peninsula.

The earthquake struck at 4:10 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located at a relatively shallow depth of 6 miles off the Noto Peninsula. It induced a tsunami with waves reaching over 3 feet, causing significant damage to coastal areas. The city of Nanao experienced severe shaking, while Tokyo felt much lighter effects. The aftermath saw at least 48 fatalities, with the number expected to rise as rescue efforts continued. This event invoked memories of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, a stark reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to such natural disasters.

The disaster led to tens of thousands being evacuated from their homes, widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, and significant economic losses. In the face of this tragedy, Japan’s response was swift, with efforts focused on rescue and recovery operations. International communities also extended their support, reflecting global solidarity.

Japan is in the “Ring of Fire”, a techtonic belt of earthquakes and volcanoes. About 90% of the world’s earthquakes, including most of its largest, occur within the belt. Below are some of the worst tsunamis ever recorded, emphasizing the devastating impact they can have.

The Worst Tsunamis in History

2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami: Triggered by a 9.1–9.3 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, it caused over 230,000 deaths across 14 countries, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.

2011 Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami: A 9.0 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Japan generated a tsunami with waves up to 40 meters high, leading to over 15,000 deaths and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.

1755 Lisbon Earthquake and Tsunami: This earthquake, with an estimated magnitude of 8.5–9.0, hit Portugal and triggered a tsunami affecting the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, resulting in an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 deaths.

1883 Krakatoa Eruption and Tsunami: The volcanic eruption generated tsunamis with waves up to 40 meters high, devastating coastal areas along the Sunda Strait in Indonesia and killing around 36,000 people.

1960 Valdivia Earthquake and Tsunami: The most powerful earthquake ever recorded, at a magnitude of 9.5, struck Chile, causing tsunamis that affected the Pacific coastline, with a death toll estimated between 1,000 and 6,000.