Called the Tohoku earthquake, it was the 5th most powerful earthquake ever recorded, and claimed the lives of 15,881 people, with 2,668 people still missing. It was also the most costly natural disaster, with an estimated $235 billion in damages.
The resilient and brave people of Japan pulled together and have made progress in the recovery efforts. Assistance from other countries flowed into Japan in view of the tremendous losses. Given the sheer magnitude of the disaster, much recovery and rebuilding remains to be done, but a good start has been made.
(photo: from Mainichi Shimbun/Reuters. Miyako City waterfront as the tsunami hits)
