Workers evacuated from earthquake-hit nuclear plant

Japan's top government spokesman says that a surge in radiation means workers are unable to continue even minimal efforts at a stricken nuclear plant.

Cabinet Secretary Edano said work on dousing reactors with water was disrupted when workers were forced to withdraw after radiation levels surged early in the day.

Friday's 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami, which killed thousands, damaged the plant's cooling functions.

The site has also been hit by four explosions, triggering radiation leaks and sparking health concerns. Mr Edano said radiation levels were fluctuating.