Japan Government Warns of Earthquake Risks, Dismisses Doomsday Predictions

On July 5, 2025, Japan's government issued a warning regarding the potential for more significant earthquakes in the waters southwest of its main islands. This announcement came in the wake of a 5.5-magnitude earthquake that struck near Kyushu, prompting officials to urge the public to disregard unfounded predictions of an impending major disaster, which have been fueled by a popular comic book.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that over the past two weeks, the Kagoshima prefecture has experienced more than 1,000 tremors, raising concerns among residents and visitors. Ayataka Ebita, director of the JMA’s earthquake and tsunami monitoring division, emphasized the unpredictability of earthquakes, stating, "With our current scientific knowledge, it’s difficult to predict the exact time, place, or scale of an earthquake." He urged citizens to rely on scientific evidence rather than sensationalized rumors.

The recent earthquake, strong enough to make standing difficult, led to the evacuation of some residents from remote islands near the quake's epicenter. The JMA's monitoring efforts aim to ensure public safety while minimizing panic. The agency's warning comes as a response to a surge of interest in a manga titled "The Future I Saw," which some have interpreted as a prediction of a catastrophic event occurring in early July. The artist, Ryo Tatsuki, has publicly stated, "I am not a prophet," distancing herself from the interpretations of her work.

Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization indicates that visitor arrivals from Hong Kong, where the doomsday rumors have circulated extensively, fell 11% in May compared to the previous year. However, Japan has recorded a significant increase in tourism overall this year, with April marking a record high of 3.9 million travelers.

The JMA continues to monitor seismic activity closely, providing regular updates to the public while emphasizing the importance of scientific understanding in the face of natural disasters. Japan, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences approximately 20% of the world's earthquakes that reach a magnitude of 6 or greater, underscoring the country's vulnerability to seismic events.

In conclusion, while Japan prepares for the possibility of more tremors, officials remain committed to countering misinformation and ensuring that the public focuses on scientifically grounded information. The resilience of Japan's society, built over decades of experience with earthquakes, remains a critical factor in navigating these challenges. As the nation moves forward, maintaining a balance between preparedness and public confidence will be essential in addressing future seismic threats.