Daftarsbmptn.com – Japan is once again in the spotlight as new research by international geologists updates data on the history of major tsunamis that have struck the country. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, this country is known to be highly susceptible to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and tsunamis. Japan’s long history demonstrates how these giant waves have repeatedly left a significant impact on people’s lives, infrastructure, and even national disaster mitigation policies.
One of the largest tsunamis recorded in Japanese history occurred on March 11, 2011, known as the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, or the Tohoku tsunami. This disaster was triggered by a 9.0 magnitude megathrust earthquake, making it one of the strongest earthquakes ever to hit the modern world. The resulting tsunami reached heights of over 20 meters in several coastal areas, sweeping away homes, crippling infrastructure, and causing damage to the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Its impact was felt not only in Japan but also shook the global order regarding nuclear preparedness and disaster mitigation.
However, long before that, Japan also recorded a major tsunami in 1896, known as the Sanriku Tsunami. This event is recorded as one of the deadliest, with waves reaching over 30 meters high and causing tens of thousands of deaths. Other tsunamis, such as those in 1707, 1946, and several local events along the Pacific coastline, also demonstrate a historical pattern that Japan is prone to marine disasters.
Recent research shows that the frequency of tsunamis in Japan is closely related to the country’s geographic location. Japan is located at the confluence of four major tectonic plates: the Pacific Plate, the Philippine Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the North American Plate. This plate movement makes Japan one of the most seismically active zones in the world. When one of the plates moves, rubs against another, or subducts, enormous energy is released in the form of earthquakes. If this movement occurs underwater, the potential for tsunamis is extremely high.
Furthermore, the steep seabed structure in Japan and the presence of deep ocean trenches such as the Japan Trench further increase the potential for large tsunamis. These very deep trenches allow for the uplift and displacement of large volumes of seawater during a megathrust earthquake. This situation differs from countries located in shallow subduction zones, which makes Japan more frequently exposed to the threat of giant waves.
The Japanese government itself continues to update its mitigation system, including the use of a high-tech earthquake sensor network, an early warning system, the construction of newly designed seawalls, and regular public education. Strengthening infrastructure and public mental preparedness have been proven to save many lives in recent disasters.
With a long history of tsunamis and a proven scientific foundation, Japan now has one of the most advanced disaster mitigation systems in the world. Nevertheless, experts continue to warn that the threat of tsunamis and large earthquakes remains real. History serves as a reminder that vigilance is essential, especially in a country like Japan, located on an active plate tectonic plate.