These are some of the dramatic videos captured as the sixth most powerful earthquake ever recorded hit the east coast of Japan.The 8.9-magnitude quake struck at a shallow depth just 80 miles off the coast, triggering a 30ft tsunami that has devastated the country and left a suspected 1,300 people dead.
Frantic people ran out of their homes or cowered inside as the powerful quake struck around 5.46am GMT.
Many older buildings collapsed as the ground shook, but footage also showed towers and skyscrapers in the capital Tokyo - built to withstand tremors - swaying as the quake went on.
Video also revealed the terrifying power of the tsunami as it battered coastal areas, destroying homes and roads and leaving the area swamped with debris and bodies.
The official death toll currently stands at 574, but there are still hundreds of people missing and rescue teams are being hampered as they try to reach inaccessible areas.
Japan 8.9 Earthquake | March 11, 2011
Moment of Japan earthquake caught on cameras triggering 10m tsunami.
Video of mad tsunami waves battering ships, homes, cars after Japan earthquake
JAPAN QUAKE FOOTAGE uped to 8.8 JUST NOW! march 11 -11 EARTHQUAKE VIDEO MIRROR!!
source: dailymail