Hundreds Killed in Tsunami After 8.9-magnitude Earthquake in Japan

(NECN: Josh Brogadir) - Japanese police say 200 to 300 bodies have been found in a northeastern coastal area after a massive earthquake.

The magnitude 8.9 offshore quake unleashed a 23-foot tsunami and was followed by more than 50 aftershocks for hours. Boats, cars and homes have been swept away. Widespread fires are burning out of
control.

The Japanese government has ordered thousands of residents near a nuclear plant to evacuate because the plant's system was unable to cool the reactor.

FEMA advice on what to do in case of tsunami:

For those in coastal areas, the following are guidelines for what you should do if a tsunami is likely in your area:

· Turn on your radio to learn if there is a tsunami warning if an earthquake occurs and you are in a coastal area.

· Move inland to higher ground immediately and stay there.

· Stay away from the beach. Never go down to the beach to watch a tsunami come in. If you can see the wave you are too close to escape it.

· CAUTION - If there is noticeable recession in water away from the shoreline this is nature's tsunami warning and it should be heeded. You should move away immediately

For more information on tsunamis and what steps to take before, during, and after a tsunami and for ongoing tsunami updates, visit www.FEMA.gov.

Hawaiian Governor Neil Abercrombie made the following statement from the State Civil Defense Emergency Operations Center:

"Residents should take this tsunami warning seriously. All state and county agencies and law enforcement are doing what needs to be done to ensure public safety.

"This is a time to be sensible and act with aloha. Please be mindful of your neighbors, especially for the elderly who may need kokua at this time. If you are in a tsunami inundation zone, please make your way to higher ground or go to your nearest shelter."

Currently Hawaii National Guard is on standby on all Hawaiian Islands. For the latest information, please tune in to your local radio and television stations; or visit www.scd.hawaii.gov.

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