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Friday, March 11, 2011 at 06:46:23 PM NZT
A major Earthquake just off the coast of Japan has caused major damage and large tsunami. Initial estimates have been upgraded to Magnitude 8.9 at a depth of 24.4 km. Significant loss of life is predicted.
NZ Civil Defense has issued a warning: A tsunami potential threat advisory is still in effect for New Zealand. Stay away from beaches.
Initial prediction place potential waves hitting Northland in New Zealand at 6:14 AM.
The Japanese Earthquake caused 8 to 13-foot tsunami that damaged buildings, caused fires and washed away homes along the Japanese northeastern coast.
A major oil refinery is on fire in Chiba, northeast of Tokyo. Another major fire was reported at JFE Holdings steel plant in Chiba.
Aftershocks 5 M to 7 M continue to rock the region as images on Japanese television showed cars and boats being swept away by tsunami waters
