22/03/2011 – in a BBC interview with Professor Gerry Thomas, director of the Chernobyl tissue bank in London, has stated that she is unconcerned with the low levels of radiation in the Fukushima area providing that people in the region stick to common sense advice.

20/03/2011 – Efforts to cool down the nuclear reactor at Fukushima using sea water appear to be having little effect. In response, emergency workers at the scene are increasing efforts to bring core temperatures down.

17/03/2011 - Following the last week’s catastrophic earthquake and subsequent tsunami, at least three explosions have been reported at a nuclear station in the Fukushima region. It seems that the radiation levels have dropped as winds are blowing radiation away from the mainland and over the ocean, though a 30km danger zone has been drawn around the power plant incorporating a no-fly policy and recommendations to stay indoors for residents on the ground.

The official death toll stands at 3,000 as a result of the quake and tsunami, though this is thought to be a conservative estimate and up to 10,000 are feared dead. Aid workers from around the world are offering their services to the 500,000 thought to be homeless. In addition, 100,000 ground troops are assisting in the relief effort.

Non-essential travel to the stricken area has been discouraged by most state governments, and some (including Finland and the Netherlands) have urged nationals in the region to leave at the earliest available opportunity.

Reported by Claire Blackthorne.

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