The news focuses on Japan's strategies and initiatives to counteract potential disasters from the predicted Nankai Trough earthquake. The civil authorities and citizens have begun proactive steps to ensure minimal damage and preparedness in the event of such an emergency.

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Japan due to its geographic position on the Pacific Ring of Fire. They therefore pay particular attention to earthquake preparedness. The Nankai Trough, a significant subduction zone, poses a serious threat because of the potential for large earthquakes. Preparing for this possibility involves not just the government but every citizen. The values at stake are safety, preparedness, and collective responsibility.

In contrast to the US and EU, Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries and has in place advanced earthquake forecasting and response systems. While the US and EU do experience earthquakes, the frequency and potential magnitude of such events aren't as high as in Japan, making Japan's pre-emptive approach to this specific seismic event noteworthy.