Reported as being one of the most powerful earthquakes in recorded history
Associated Press
The National Weather Service has reported that a 8.9-magnitude earthquake hit Japan Friday. Tsunami warnings have been issued and news agencies in the region have reported damaging waves on the northeastern coast.
Earlier this week a 7.3-magnitude earthquake also hit Japan. The region is known for its plate tectonic movement and location in the “ring of fire.”
Update
Newer reports have come in and several sections of Japan have been hit with massive waves. The water is continuing inland and is ravaging cities. Airports have been flooded and many homes are without power.
Tsunami warnings have also been generated for Russia, New Zealand, Taiwan and Hawaii.
Japan is expected to receive an aftershock earthquake that may be very close of the same magnitude rating in the near future. Damage could be worse due to damage from the previous quake and tsunami.
More up-to-date information is available through Associated Press.
Al Jazeera English has a live feed of the destruction:
(footage is now being circulated with other news and may not be on at this moment)