Giant Whirlpool Forms in Tsunami Off the Coast of Japan

Physicist Michio Kaki explains: A giant whirlpool or eddy current that formed off the coast of Japan — likely occurs when currents collide or when a crack in the undersea surface acts as a water drain (ABC News).

The video is possibly the large whirlpool that appeared in the harbor of Oarai City, Japan. David Applegate, a senior science adviser for earthquake and geologic hazards for the U.S. Geological Survey, reported the 8.9-magnitude quake ruptured a patch of the earth’s crust 150 miles long and 50 miles across. That gives credence to the water drain suggested by Michio Kaki.

Estimated 200-300 bodies currently floating on the surface of the Pacific Ocean near Sendai.

Communications area down, therefore death toll is expected to rise as bodies are discovered and communications are re-established.

Japanese officials have named a state of emergency as concern grows as a coolant surface was not working at a nuclear power plant. An announcement was made that radioactive steam may be intentionally vented because of rising pressure inside the facility.