Watch Megaquake: Hour That Shook Japan

Megaquake: Hour That Shook Japan is a documentary series produced by Discovery Channel that explores the devastating 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident that struck Japan. The four-episode series, which premiered in 2011, features interviews with survivors, experts, and scientists, as well as footage of the disaster and its aftermath.

The first episode, titled "The Warning," sets the scene by explaining the tectonic plates that make up the Earth's crust and the fault line that runs through Japan. It also introduces viewers to some of the people and places that were affected by the disaster, including a fisherman who lost his home and business, and a hospital that was unable to evacuate its patients before the tsunami hit.

In the second episode, "The Quake," viewers are taken through the minutes leading up to the earthquake and its immediate aftermath. The episode features footage of the shaking buildings, panicked people, and the tsunami that followed. Experts explain why the earthquake was so powerful and how it triggered the tsunami that caused most of the damage.

The third episode, "The Tsunami," focuses on the impact of the waves that swept over the coast of Japan, destroying towns and killing thousands of people. Survivors and rescuers describe their experiences, and experts explain how the tsunami was caused by the earthquake and why it was so deadly.

In the final episode, "The Aftermath," the focus shifts to the long-term effects of the disaster, including the nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi plant. The episode explores the reactions of the Japanese people, the government's response, and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the affected areas.

Throughout the series, scientific explanations are used to help viewers understand the causes and effects of the disaster. Experts from around the world provide insight into the geology of the region, the physics of earthquakes and tsunamis, and the environmental and health impacts of the disaster.

Megaquake: Hour That Shook Japan is a sobering look at the power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need to work together to mitigate the effects of such events. With its mix of personal stories, expert analysis, and stunning visuals, this series is both educational and emotional, offering viewers a glimpse into one of the most significant disasters of our time.