Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident

The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident occurred in March 2011 after a massive earthquake and tsunami hit Japan. The disaster overwhelmed cooling systems at the plant’s reactors, causing nuclear fuel to overheat, melt, and release radioactive materials. This led to dangerous radiation leaks and the evacuation of nearby residents. The incident was a significant nuclear crisis, highlighting vulnerabilities in safety systems during natural disasters, and prompted worldwide reflection on nuclear safety and disaster preparedness. Cleanup and containment efforts are ongoing, aiming to manage the environmental impact.