A long-feared megaquake off Japan’s Pacific coast could cause up to $1.81 trillion in damage and kill nearly 300,000 people, according to a new government report.
The projected impact — almost half of Japan’s GDP — includes massive tsunamis, collapsed buildings, and 1.23 million evacuees. The updated figure reflects inflation and expanded flood zones.
“There’s an 80% chance of a magnitude 8–9 quake along the Nankai Trough,” the Cabinet Office warned. A worst-case scenario would be catastrophic if it strikes in winter at night.
