Japan was hit by its most powerful earthquake in 140 years—a magnitude 8.9 quake that struck near Miyagi Prefecture early Tuesday. It lasted over a minute and shook buildings as far as Tokyo, 300 km away. Seismic alarms gave some residents time to evacuate.

Over 3,000 deaths have been confirmed, and thousands remain missing. A massive tsunami with 10-meter waves followed, sweeping away homes, cars, and boats. Japan’s prime minister called it “a disaster of historic magnitude,” urging calm and resilience: “Japan has risen again before, and it will do so again.”

Hospitals are overwhelmed, 1.5 million homes are without power, and basic supplies are limited. Rescue efforts are underway, with help from Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and international teams.

A major concern is Fukushima’s damaged nuclear plant. Cooling systems have failed, prompting evacuation within a 20-kilometer radius due to fears of radiation leaks.

Seismologists called it Japan’s strongest quake since the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, with energy equivalent to hundreds of atomic bombs. Countries like the U.S., South Korea, and Germany have sent aid. Despite the devastation, volunteers and donation drives reflect Japan’s strong spirit. Rebuilding will take years, but hope remains.