Tokyo Quake Draft Predicts 20,000 Deaths and ¥80 Trillion Losses

A Japanese government working group forecasts severe casualties, massive economic impact, and widespread displacement in a potential Tokyo metropolitan earthquake scenario.

Summary

A Japanese government working group draft estimates that a major earthquake striking the Tokyo metropolitan area could result in up to 20,000 deaths, more than 80 trillion yen in economic losses, and millions of people unable to return home or displaced. These updated figures reflect changes from projections made 12 years ago, indicating revised assessments of the potential disaster’s scale and consequences.

Terms & Concepts
  • Economic losses: The estimated monetary impact of a disaster, including damage to infrastructure, housing, and business operations.
  • Displacement: The forced movement of people from their homes due to a disaster, conflict, or other emergency situations.
  • Projection update: Revised estimates or forecasts based on new data or methodologies.