Origin of the July Earthquake Rumor

Tatsuki Ryo's Manga 'The Future I Saw'

• Beginning of the Prophecy: The manga artist Tatsuki Ryo published "The Future I Saw" in 1999, which contained content about a major disaster occurring in March 2011. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, the manga began to be recognized as a book of prophecy.
• July 2025 Prophecy: In the complete edition of "The Future I Saw" in 2021, Tatsuki Ryo predicted that a large-scale disaster would occur on July 5, 2025. This prediction included the underwater eruption between Japan and the Philippines and a massive tsunami engulfing countries around the Pacific.
• Author's Reaction: Tatsuki Ryo stated that the attention to her prophecy has a positive effect on raising disaster prevention awareness. However, she urged people not to be overly anxious and to take appropriate action by referring to expert opinions.

Possibility of Nankai Trough Earthquake

• Government Announcement: The Japanese government's Earthquake Research Committee has raised the probability of an earthquake occurring in the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years to about 80%.
• Expected Damage: In the event of a Nankai Trough earthquake, it is estimated that up to 290,000 people could die, and economic damage could reach 270 trillion yen. The tsunami height could reach up to 34m, and a wide area could be flooded.

Background of Spread

• Social Media: Anxiety has been amplified as related content spreads through social media such as YouTube and TikTok.
• Chinese-speaking Region Influence: Rumors have spread, particularly in Chinese-speaking regions such as Hong Kong and Taiwan, leading to increased cancellations of trips to Japan.

Stance of the Japanese Government and Experts

Impossibility of Earthquake Prediction

The Japan Meteorological Agency has stated that it is impossible to accurately predict the timing, location, or magnitude of earthquakes with current science and technology. The government emphasizes that it is important to refrain from excessive anxiety and to prepare for disasters on a regular basis.

Impact on the Tourism Industry

Due to the July earthquake rumor, there has been a decline in reservations for trips to Japan and a reduction in flights, which has had a negative impact on the tourism industry.

Conclusion

Currently, there is no scientific basis for the prediction that a major earthquake will occur in Japan in July. However, given the continued possibility of a Nankai Trough earthquake, if you plan to visit Japan, it is advisable to check disaster preparedness information and prepare emergency supplies for personal safety.