**Japan Hit by Most Powerful Earthquake in 140 Years**
Japan was struck by a devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake early Tuesday near Miyagi Prefecture, the strongest in 140 years. “This is a disaster of historic magnitude,” declared the prime minister, who announced a national emergency. The quake shook buildings in Tokyo, over 300 kilometers from the epicenter, and triggered a massive tsunami with waves over 10 meters high.
Over 3,000 people are confirmed dead, and thousands remain missing. Entire coastal towns were swept away, and more than 1.5 million homes lost power. “Hospitals are overwhelmed,” and shelters are filling fast as survivors seek safety and essentials like food and water.
One of the gravest concerns is the Fukushima nuclear plant, where cooling system failures have raised fears of radiation leaks. A 20-kilometer evacuation zone was established as authorities monitor the situation closely.
Seismologists called it “the strongest recorded quake since modern scientific records,” releasing energy equal to hundreds of Hiroshima-level atomic bombs.
The global community quickly responded with aid and rescue teams. Meanwhile, Japanese citizens are showing resilience and unity. Volunteers are helping, and donations are pouring in. Although recovery will take years, hope is already rising from the ruins.
