A massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake – the seventh largest recorded in history – struck the eastern coast of Japan at 14:46 local time today, 11 March. The earthquake’s epicentre was located 130 kilometres off the eastern coast of Japan, and some 373 kilometres north-east of Tokyo. A number of severe 6.4-magnitude aftershocks have followed. Within minutes, the quake had triggered a tsunami that hit the eastern coast of Japan with 7-metre-high waves, which pushed inland and left a trail of destruction. So far, at least 28 people are reported to have died, with many more injured or missing. The earthquake triggered fires and caused severe damage to buildings, leaving 4.4 million households without electricity. The Japanese Red Cross immediately began an assessment exercise from its national headquarters and at branch level, mobilizing its staff and volunteers. The National Society deployed 11 national disaster response teams to carry out assessments and provide first aid and healthcare in the affected areas. Emergency relief planning is underway. Read more

Non-Believers Giving Aid and the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science are once more partnering with the International Committee of the Red Cross to bring much needed help to people whose lives have been torn apart by natural disaster. Every cent and penny of money donated via Non-Believers Giving Aid will be forwarded to the International Red Cross – and if you are in the UK and you complete the Gift Aid Declaration along with your donation, we will pass that on in its entirety too.

BBC Special Report

A massive earthquake has hit the north-east of Japan triggering a tsunami that has caused extensive damage. Japan's TV showed cars, ships and even buildings being swept away in the Fukushima prefecture, after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake. Officials said a wave as high as 6m (20ft) could strike the coast. The quake struck about 250 miles (400km) from Tokyo at a depth of 20 miles, shaking buildings in the capital for several minutes. Chris Ryan, head of the Australian Tsunami Warning Centre, describes the impact of the Tsunami. Read more

We urge you to give generously in support of much needed humanitarian relief effort as crisies around the world arise. Thank you for your support.
Richard