8.9 Earthquake Hits Japan Followed by Tsunami — U.S. Cities Issued Tsunami Warning

Japan was hit today with its most powerful earthquake in 100 years — followed by a series of aftershocks and a massive tsunami. (Here is a video)

The quake’s epicenter was 373 kilometers (231 miles) away from Tokyo and at least 30 aftershocks have been recorded. Four million homes had no power in Tokyo and surrounding areas.

Dozens are already reported dead. My only hope is that fatalities will be dramatically reduced by the level of preparation and sophistication of the Japanese. On a trip to Japan a year or so ago, I was told about their preparations for such disasters and I was very impressed. The government has implemented building codes to reduce the dangers from earthquakes and, as an island nation, has spent considerable time working on the dangers of tsunamis.

Source: CNN