A 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake in Japan Causes Ground to Rise Over 4 Meters in Many Areas and Shift Over One Meter Horizontally.
Japan, a country frequently affected by earthquakes, has made significant progress in monitoring seismic activity. This advancement allows authorities to conduct precise measurements. A network of GPS stations is strategically spread across the nation. When an earthquake occurs, scientists can accurately calculate how much the ground has warped and shifted. This system revealed that the ground moved 130 centimeters westward following the earthquake on January 1, according to BBC.
Buildings destroyed after the earthquake in Wajima, Japan on January 2. (Photo: AFP).
Meanwhile, scientists are also observing Japan from space, comparing satellite images taken before and after the earthquake. The ALOS-2 satellite reported a decrease in the distance between the satellite and the ground as the Earth’s surface rose due to the earthquake’s impact. The most significant ground movement occurred in the western part of the Noto Peninsula. The ocean floor shifted away from the coastal region, generating a tsunami approximately 80 centimeters high. Coincidentally, the uplift may have mitigated the impact of the tsunami as it approached the shore.
Notably, despite the ongoing search for individuals trapped in the rubble, the casualty rate has remained low. Models predicting losses and damages estimate that the death toll will be around 100. In comparison to the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Turkey last year, both events released similar amounts of energy, yet the number of fatalities in Turkey and Syria reached 50,000. Similarly, the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti in 2010 resulted in over 100,000 deaths.
The difference lies in preparedness. Japan is situated at the intersection of four major tectonic plates, making it one of the most seismically active regions on Earth. The country accounts for about 20% of the world’s earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher. Seismic events are recorded approximately every five minutes. As a result, Japan invests heavily in infrastructure and safety measures for its residents. Authorities enforce strict building regulations, and residents receive thorough training on how to respond during earthquakes. Japan also boasts one of the most advanced earthquake early warning systems in the world.
Scientists have yet to predict the timing and scale of earthquake events, but when they occur, devices send alerts to TVs, radios, and mobile networks. Warnings reach people located 10 to 20 seconds before the strongest shaking occurs. While this may seem short, it is sufficient time to open local fire stations, apply brakes on high-speed trains, and help individuals find shelter.
- At least 57 confirmed dead, Japan works on rescue efforts after the earthquake
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