2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

On 11th March 2011, at 14:46 local time, a massive undersea earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan. This was the most powerful quake in the country\'s history, triggering a devastating tsunami. The disaster led to a partial nuclear meltdown, and the force even shifted the Earth's axis...

On 11th March 2011, at 14:46 local time, a massive undersea earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan. This was the most powerful quake in the country\'s history, triggering a devastating tsunami. The disaster led to a partial nuclear meltdown, and the force even shifted the Earth's axis, shortening the day by 1.8 milliseconds. Before the main quake, Japan experienced significant foreshocks, but nothing could prepare the nation for the magnitude 9 earthquake, which was felt as far as Tokyo. Authorities issued a tsunami warning, and residents scrambled to reach higher ground. Soon after, a 10-meter wall of water crashed into the coast, reaching up to 10 km inland and leaving devastation in its wake. The tsunami caused severe damage, including a crisis at nuclear power stations, which led to mass evacuations. Explosions occurred as technicians worked to prevent a full nuclear meltdown. In the following days, relentless aftershocks complicated rescue efforts. Over 15,000 people lost their lives, with thousands more missing, but the world witnessed incredible tales of survival and international aid efforts.