In March 2011 the world s second-largest nuclear disaster occurred on the eastern coast of Japan. A 9.0-magnitude earthquake caused a nearly 50-foot tsunami that flooded the Fukushima nuclear power plant. The devastating tidal wave caused equipment failures that led the nuclear reactors to overheat to the point of meltdown. Dangerous radioactive materials released into the air continue to threaten the health of the ocean and people around the world today. Topics include: how movements in the earth s crust below water can cause seismic waves the evacuation of more than 300,000 people from their homes near the power plant contamination of crops and water decontamination and repair work continued concern about leaking radiation from the power plant.

This introduction to the Fukushima nuclear disaster covers the environmental impact and cleanup.