How did Japan react to the false quake alarm?

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In summary, Japan recently experienced a false quake alarm which caused panic and prompted rumors on social media about the cause. It was later revealed that the alarm was triggered by a technical glitch rather than an actual earthquake. This incident highlights the importance of verifying information before spreading it and the need for better systems to prevent false alarms. It also showcases the effectiveness of Japan's earthquake and tsunami disaster prevention agency in handling such situations.
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nsaspook
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False quake alarm: How Japan reacted to the ‘Big One’ that never was
The mistake was “probably the biggest” misreading since the system started in October 2007, said Toshio Kusano, a spokesman for the Office of Earthquake and Tsunami Disaster Prevention at the agency.

The glitch was caused by electrical noise on the ocean floor, he said.
...
Rumors circulated on social media about the possible causes, which included a lightning bolt, Godzilla and “Pokemon Go” congestion.
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/08/01/national/false-quake-alarm-how-japan-reacted-to-the-big-one-that-never-was/#.V5_v0nUrIW1

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Clearly false data since nothing fell down anywhere.
I heard that some people are attributing the false data to internet lag arising from the new pokemon game.
 
  • #3
Wow, this is definitely a scary situation! It's understandable that people would be concerned and even panicked when they receive a false quake alarm. It's reassuring to hear that the mistake was caused by a technical glitch and not an actual earthquake.

It's interesting to see how social media played a role in spreading rumors about the cause of the false alarm. While it's important to stay informed during emergencies, it's also important to verify information before spreading it. I hope that in the future, there will be better systems in place to prevent these types of mistakes and alleviate unnecessary panic.

In the meantime, it's important to stay calm and follow official instructions during emergencies. I'm glad that Japan has a well-established earthquake and tsunami disaster prevention agency to handle these situations. Let's hope that this incident serves as a learning experience for improvement in the future.
 

Related to How did Japan react to the false quake alarm?

What caused the massive false alarm in Tokyo?

The massive false alarm in Tokyo was caused by a malfunction in the city's emergency alert system. It mistakenly sent out a warning about an incoming missile, causing widespread panic and confusion.

How did the false alarm impact the city of Tokyo?

The false alarm caused chaos and fear among the citizens of Tokyo, with many people seeking shelter and trying to contact their loved ones. It also disrupted transportation and businesses, causing inconvenience and economic losses.

What steps are being taken to prevent a similar false alarm in the future?

The government and emergency services are working to improve the reliability and accuracy of the alert system. They are also conducting thorough investigations to identify the cause of the false alarm and implement measures to prevent it from happening again.

Was anyone injured during the false alarm?

No, fortunately there were no reported injuries during the false alarm. However, the psychological impact on those who experienced the false alarm and the resulting panic should not be underestimated.

How can citizens prepare for a potential false alarm or emergency situation?

Citizens can stay informed about their local emergency alert system and be aware of the procedures to follow in case of an emergency. It is also important to have an emergency plan in place and be prepared with necessary supplies such as food, water, and first aid kits.

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