Authorities in Japan are warning people against hoarding as fear of a potential megaquake has caused a surge in demand for disaster kits and essential items.
The country’s weather agency issued its first advisory, suggesting that a large earthquake is more likely following a magnitude 7.1 tremor in the southern region on Thursday which resulted in 14 injuries.
In Tokyo, some supermarkets are facing shortages of certain products, with bottled water already being rationed due to procurement difficulties.
Online shopping platforms are showing high demand for portable toilets, preserved food, and bottled water as residents gear up for potential disasters.
While some individuals are taking precautions, others are more resigned to the possibility of a megaquake, emphasizing the need to remain calm and prepared.
Authorities are emphasizing that the risk of a megaquake is still low, despite the historical seismic activity in the region.
Social media platforms are being flooded with spam posts capitalizing on the fear surrounding the megaquake, making it difficult for users to access genuine information.
Japan, located on four major tectonic plates, experiences frequent earthquakes, with the country seeing around 1,500 quakes annually, most of them minor.
The country has faced devastating earthquakes in the past, such as the January 1 incident which resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage.
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