Magnitude 8.9 Earthquake Rocks Japan
Eric Due from the Japan Times describes the moment the quake struck
A massive earthquake has hit the northeast of Japan triggering a tsunami that has caused extensive damage.
Japan’s TV showed cars, ships and even buildings being swept away by a vast wall of water after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake.
Officials said a wave could be as high 10m (33ft). Numerous casualties are feared.
The quake struck about 250 miles (400km) from Tokyo at a depth of 20 miles, shaking building within the capital.
The tremor at 1446 local time (0546 GMT) was followed by a series of effective aftershocks.
Seismologists say it is 1 of the largest earthquakes to hit Japan for many years.
The tsunami warning was extended to the Philippines, Indonesia and also the Pacific coast of Russia.
