Devastating 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami

Tsunami's Massive Impact

The devastating March 11, 2011 Tohoku earthquake generated a catastrophic tsunami with an unprecedented maximum wave height of approximately 40 meters (130 feet) in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. The sheer force of the tsunami caused widespread destruction, reaching up to 10 kilometers inland.

Additional Findings

In addition to the colossal tsunami, researchers have estimated that the earthquake triggered a 2,000-kilometer (1,240-mile) long and 400-meter (1,300-foot) deep undersea rupture. The combination of the powerful earthquake and subsequent tsunami resulted in a staggering loss of life and property damage.