Japan Hit by Powerful Earthquake and Tsunami: Thousands Affected

Japan has experienced its strongest earthquake in 140 years. Early Tuesday morning, an 8.9-magnitude tremor struck near Miyagi Prefecture on the northeast coast, shaking buildings as far away as Tokyo, over 300 kilometers from the epicenter. The quake lasted more than a minute, causing widespread panic and triggering a massive tsunami.

Seismic alarms helped many residents evacuate, but more than 3,000 people have been confirmed dead, with thousands still missing. Tsunami waves over 10 meters high inundated coastal towns, sweeping homes, vehicles, and boats inland.

The Japanese Prime Minister declared a national disaster, urging calm and stating, “This is a catastrophe of historic magnitude. But Japan has risen again before, and it will do so again.” Hospitals are overwhelmed, and more than 1.5 million homes are without power. Essential supplies such as food and water are in short supply, and rescue teams from Japan and international organizations are working tirelessly to assist those affected.