A record breaking earthquake hit Japan on Friday and triggered a 10-metre tsunami, reports Huffington Post.
The death toll from the 8.9 magnitude quake and tsunami is at least 200-300 people and many more missing.
After the earthquake a 23-foot (seven meter) tsunami washed away everything in its path in northern Japan, including ships, large fishing boats, snapping power lines. The murky and muddy water washed inland destroying homes, cars, and causing giants fires due to burnt gas pipes.
Japan hasn’t seen an earthquake of this magnitude since 1923 in Kyoto when a 8.3 magnitude quake killed 143,000 people.
The island is a part of the “Ring of Fire” a geographical zone prone to volcanoes and earthquakes. This area is notorious for 90% of all the world’s earthquakes, including the Dec. 26, 2004 that created the Indian Ocean tsunami.
Tsumani warnings have been triggered for Hawaii as waves have already measured at 3 feet (a meter). A tsumani warning has also been issued for the U.S. West coast.
Japan has strict building codes, the most sophisticated in the world which saved their tall skyscrapers from being affected by the earthquake.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this tragedy.
Photo: AP via Huffington Post
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