Warning of "Severe Earthquake" in Northeast Asia

Japan (Northeast Asia) raised the alert level for a "severe earthquake" today, Thursday, following an announcement made a week ago. The warning urged people to exercise caution and not evacuate their homes, stating that the likelihood of a major earthquake is higher than usual, but it is not imminent. In response, thousands of Japanese canceled their planned trips and stockpiled necessities, while some train services were also affected. The Japanese government stated that it no longer requires people to take special precautions, and they are free to "return to normal lifestyle patterns." Kyodo News reported that the Japan Meteorological Agency said it has not detected any seismic activity indicating any concerning changes in the area where a strong earthquake might occur. Disaster Management Minister Yoshifumi Matsumura noted that "despite the lifting of the warning last week, the risk of a major earthquake still exists," but he indicated that "no abnormal seismic activity or crustal deformation" has been detected, leading to the relaxation of preparedness calls. The previous week's warning followed hours after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern island of Kyushu.