Massive Earthquake Hits Japan

The largest earthquake (magnitude 8.9) since records were kept hit Japan around 3am EST, killing 60 and leaving dozens misisng. A Tsunami warning has been issued for most of the Pacific, including Hawaii and the West Coast. (EDIT: Death tolls and counts of the missing are rising by the hour, now reaching into the hundreds. Watch this space). 


 While damage can be seen throughout the country, the worst effects appear to be concentrated in the north of the main island of Honshu, especially in Myagi Prefecture.

Due to the shutdown of nuclear power plants across the coutnry and the destruction of communication and power lines along the coast, rolling blackouts are occuring throughout the country making communication difficult.

For those seeking to keep abreast of the situation, contact or locate individuals in Japan, or see maps of damage, Google's Crisis Response Project is keeping an up-to-date page on develpoing warnings, along with running a missing persons finder. It can be found in Japanese and English.

WRGW News has reached out to relevant authorities for comment but felt it necessary to provide information as soon as possible. This story is developing...