March 2011: Japan hit by tsunami after massive earthquake

A massive earthquake has hit the north-east of Japan triggering a tsunami that has caused extensive damage.

Japan's TV showed cars, ships and even buildings being swept away in the Fukushima prefecture, after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake.

Officials said a wave as high as 6m (20ft) could strike the coast.

The quake struck about 250 miles (400km) from Tokyo at a depth of 20 miles, shaking buildings in the capital for several minutes.

Chris Ryan, head of the Australian Tsunami Warning Centre, describes the impact of the Tsunami.