The devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami left an indelible mark on Japan’s landscape and psyche. Images of the surging water swallowing entire towns remain seared into our collective memory. But just how far inland did this force of nature reach? The answer, as you’ll discover, is both staggering and a testament to the enduring spirit of those who rebuilt their lives from the wreckage.
Mapping the Tsunami’s Reach: Beyond the Coastline
While the earthquake itself caused significant damage, it was the ensuing tsunami that brought about the most widespread destruction. The waves, some reaching heights of over 130 feet, traveled miles inland, reshaping the coastline and forever altering the lives of those in their path.
- Miyako, Iwate Prefecture: Here, the tsunami surged up to 2 miles inland, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Homes were reduced to rubble, businesses were washed away, and the landscape was scarred with the debris of shattered lives.
- Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture: As Japan’s largest city affected by the disaster, Sendai bore witness to the tsunami’s awesome power. The waves traveled up to 6 miles inland, inundating the airport and causing widespread devastation.
Tsunami Damage Sendai
