Japan Earthquake - Pacfic Tsunami - Searching for Friends and Family

March 11, 2011 the eastern coast of Japan was affected by an 8.9 magnitude earthquake. This earthquake spawned a tsunami that devastated mush of the eastern coast. It has also taken down electricity as well as all communication to many areas of Japan. Those of us with family members in the area are understandably concerned about our loved ones.

There are a great many people missing, but the majority of the population survived and are trying to reach their families. Cell phones are not receiving signals, however, some landlines are still in operation. If you have a landline number, the US Embassy in Tokoyo is encouraging you to continue to try and reach your loved one(s) using that number rather than a cell number. They go on to add, if you reach someone who has been listed as missing, please contact them via the email provided below and let them know. We are strongly encouraged to use SMS texting and any other media available such as Twitter, Facebook and Myspace.

The United States government has several means already in place to help locate individuals living or visiting the country. The government website: answers.USA.gov lists several help sites to assist. Please take advantage of these sites, leaving the phone lines open wherever and whenever possible.

The Department of US State website lists information specific to Japan and the current situation that has resulted due to the Japan earthquake and Pacific tsunami.

Callers that are calling from the United States may call 1-888-407-4747. Callers from outside of the United States can reach the Deprtment of State office at 1-202-501-4444.

Family members of Department of Defense workers should call 1-800-342-9647 for more information.

They also list the following email address: JapanEmergencyUSC@state.gov

There are also Facebook and Twitter accounts set up that are providing current updates and information.

The following are US Embassy websites in Japan that appear to be functioning. Utilize them when at all possible for information:

Nagoya

Tokyo

Sapporo

Osaka

The website in Fukuoka appears to be down (understandably).

It is tragic that in a time such as this, there are individuals taking advantage of the situation. There have been several reported scams, individuals posing as organizations searching for the missing, seeking money. Do not respond nor send money to any of these individuals. This is not intended to deter financial assistance, merely to encourage you to ensure the validity of the organization before engaging in any financial transactions.