Japan Commemorates 14 Years Since 3/11 Earthquake and Tsunami

Japan marks the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, honoring over 22,000 fatalities with over 27,000 still displaced. Prime Minister Ishiba pledges to impart disaster lessons and elevate Japan’s disaster prevention status globally. The disaster initiated with a 9.0-magnitude earthquake, generating a tsunami with waves up to 40.5 meters high.

On March 11, 2025, Japan commemorated the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. At 2:46 p.m., a moment of silence was observed nationwide, honoring over 22,000 individuals who were killed or went missing and recognizing that more than 27,000 people remain displaced from their homes.

During a memorial ceremony in Fukushima, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized the importance of transmitting the disaster’s lessons to future generations. He expressed this commitment to enhancing Japan’s capabilities in disaster prevention, aiming to establish the nation as the world leader in disaster readiness and response schemes.

This catastrophic event began on March 11, 2011, when Japan experienced a record-breaking 9.0-magnitude earthquake off the coast of the Tohoku region. The seismic activity generated a massive tsunami, with some waves reaching heights of 40.5 meters, leading to unprecedented destruction and loss of life in affected communities.

The anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the devastation caused by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. With over 27,000 individuals still displaced, Japan continues to confront the challenges of recovery. Prime Minister Ishiba’s commitment to improving disaster preparedness highlights the importance of learning from past events to mitigate future risks.

Original Source: www.japantimes.co.jp