1. Introduction
Tsunamis are devastating natural disasters that can cause immense destruction on coastal communities. Japan, one of the countries most prone to tsunamis in the world, has experienced numerous destructive tsunamis throughout its history. In this article, we will explore when Japan’s last tsunami was and what caused it. We will also look at other significant earthquakes in Japan and how the country is preparing for future tsunamis.
2. What Causes Tsunamis?
Tsunamis are caused by large-scale disturbances in the ocean such as earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic eruptions. These disturbances create a series of large waves that travel across the ocean at high speeds, reaching land within minutes or hours depending on the distance from the source of disturbance. When these waves reach shorelines they can cause immense destruction due to their sheer size and power.
3. Japan’s Tsunami History
Japan’s long coastline makes it particularly vulnerable to tsunamis, with records of destructive events stretching back centuries. Some of the most destructive tsunamis in Japanese history include:
• The 869 Sanriku tsunami which killed an estimated 10,000 people;
• The 1707 Hōei tsunami which killed an estimated 373,000 people;
• The 1896 Meiji-Sanriku tsunami which killed over 22,000 people;
• The 1933 Sanriku-Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami which killed 3,068 people;
• The 1960 Chile earthquake and resulting tsunami which killed 142 people in Japan;
• The 2011 Tohoku earthquake and resulting tsunami which killed 15,894 people and caused extensive damage along the coast of northeastern Japan.
4. 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami
The 2011 Tohoku earthquake was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded in Japan with a magnitude of 9.0 on the Richter scale. It occurred off the coast of northeastern Honshu Island near Sendai City on March 11th 2011 at 2:46pm local time (05:46 UTC). The earthquake triggered a powerful tsunami that reached heights up to 40 meters (131 feet) in some areas along the coast and caused immense destruction along its path including extensive flooding and damage to infrastructure such as roads bridges and buildings. In addition to 15,894 deaths reported directly related to this event there were also 2,562 missing persons reported as a result of this disaster making it one of the deadliest natural disasters ever recorded in Japanese history.
5. Other Significant Earthquakes in Japan
In addition to the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake there have been numerous other significant earthquakes that have occurred throughout Japanese history including:
• The 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake (magnitude 7.9) which caused widespread destruction across Tokyo killing over 105,000 people;
• The 1944 Tonankai Earthquake (magnitude 8) which struck central Honshu killing around 1,500 people;
• The 1948 Fukui Earthquake (magnitude 7.3) which struck western Honshu killing around 3,700 people;
• The 1995 Kobe Earthquake (magnitude 6.9) which struck western Honshu killing over 6,400 people;
• The 2007 Chuetsu Offshore Earthquake (magnitude 6) which struck Niigata Prefecture killing 40 people;
6. Preparing for Future Tsunamis in Japan
In order to prepare for future tsunamis in Japan there are several measures being taken by both public authorities as well as private citizens including:
• Building sea walls along vulnerable coastlines;
• Installing early warning systems that alert residents when a potential tsunami is approaching;
• Developing evacuation plans so residents know where they should go if they need to evacuate quickly from their homes or workplaces;
• Educating citizens about what steps they should take during a potential tsunami event such as moving away from low lying areas or seeking higher ground if possible;
7 Conclusion
tsJapan has experienced numerous devastating tsunamis throughout its history due to its unique geography and long coastline making it particularly vulnerable to these types of natural disasters.Fortunately,public authorities are taking measures such as building sea walls,installing early warning systems,developing evacuation plans,and educating citizens on how best to prepare for future events.Through these efforts,hopefully more lives can be saved if another devastating event were ever occur again.
8 Resources
Tokyo Institute Of Technology – “History Of Major Earthquakes In Japan” https://www3eecsadmfakkyokushimaunivacjp/~tokyotech/en/about/outline/earthquake_historyhtml/
BBC News – “Japan Quake : How Big Was It ?” https://wwwbbccouk/news/world-asia-pacific-12771783/
National Geographic – “Tsunami Facts And Information” https://wwwnationalgeographiccom/environment/natural-disasters/tsunami/#close
Japansocietyorg – “The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake And Tsunami” https://japansocietyorg/2011earthquake_tsunamihtml
9 About the Expert Charles R Tokoyama is CEO of Japan Insiders,an organization dedicated to providing accurate & comprehensive information about all aspects of life & culture in modern day japan.With decades experience living & working within japanese society he has become an expert on all things related to japanese culture & lifestyle.He regularly shares his insights through articles & speaking engagements throughout Asia & beyond.
How often are tsunamis in Japan?
once a year
Tsunamis are more frequent than what the general public think for example, Japan is hit at least once a year by a tsunami. Around four-fifths of all tsunamis occur in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in countries which border the Pacific Ring of Fire.
What is the longest time a tsunami has lasted?
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami lasted for seven hours and spread across the Indian Ocean from the coasts of Indonesia Sri Lanka India Maldives and Thailand to East Africa.
What country has the most tsunamis?
Japan
According to Worlddata.info, Japan has had a total record of tsunamis.
Is Japan a high risk for tsunamis?
A total of 143 tsunamis classified as 684 tsunamis killed 130974 people in Japan. Therefore tsunamis often occur in this country. The strongest waves ever recorded in Japan reached a height of several meters.
Will a tsunami happen in Japan again?
Tsunami Hazard level: High ? In the area you have selected (Japan) tsunami hazard is classified as high according to the information that is currently available. This means that there is more than a 40 percent chance of a potentially-damaging tsunami occurring in the next years.
What is the 3 biggest tsunami ever?
The three worst tsunamis in history are the 2004 Sumatra tsunami the 2011 Tohoku tsunami and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and tsunami. The worst tsunamis are often not the biggest. But in this case the waves reached an incredible height of over a foot.
