- 14 Mar 2002
- 21,056
- 18,911
Japanese authorities have issued a plea for calm after a surge in demand for disaster supplies triggered by concerns over a potential major earthquake. The call came following a magnitude 7.1 tremor that struck the country's south, prompting the weather agency to issue its first-ever advisory warning of an increased likelihood of a massive quake.
Supermarkets nationwide have reported empty shelves as consumers stock up on essentials like bottled water and preserved food. One Tokyo store even apologized for shortages, blaming "quake-related media reports" and announcing potential purchase limits. Online retailers have also seen a spike in sales of disaster kits, portable toilets, and bottled water. Experts warn that hoarding essential goods can exacerbate shortages and urge the public to remain calm and prepared without panic buying. Some retailers along the Pacific coastline also reported similar disaster-related supplies in high demand.
Just anecdotally, we noticed an increased number of shoppers yesterday, which can easily be explained by the long weekend (Monday is a public holiday, Yama no hi) and the impending Obon holidays.
Supermarkets nationwide have reported empty shelves as consumers stock up on essentials like bottled water and preserved food. One Tokyo store even apologized for shortages, blaming "quake-related media reports" and announcing potential purchase limits. Online retailers have also seen a spike in sales of disaster kits, portable toilets, and bottled water. Experts warn that hoarding essential goods can exacerbate shortages and urge the public to remain calm and prepared without panic buying. Some retailers along the Pacific coastline also reported similar disaster-related supplies in high demand.
People urged to avoid panic-buying as megaquake fears spread
Authorities urged people to avoid hoarding as anxiety over a possible megaquake triggered a spike in demand for disaster kits and daily necessities.
Just anecdotally, we noticed an increased number of shoppers yesterday, which can easily be explained by the long weekend (Monday is a public holiday, Yama no hi) and the impending Obon holidays.