Gallery: Japan devastated; homes destroyed, fires rage

Earthquake triggers a 10-meter tsunami that sweeps away houses, ships, cars and farm buildings burn; widespread evacuations.

Japan earthquake (photo credit: KYODO Kyodo / Reuters)
Japan earthquake
(photo credit: KYODO Kyodo / Reuters)
TOKYO - The biggest earthquake to hit Japan on record struck the northeast coast on Friday, triggering a 10-meter tsunami that swept away everything in its path, including houses, ships, cars and farm buildings on fire.   

The Red Cross in Geneva said the wall of water was higher than some Pacific islands and a tsunami warning was issued for almost the entire Pacific basin.    Hundreds of people were feared dead in the quake and tsunami in Japan, broadcaster NHK said, adding that many were missing. The extent of the destruction along a lengthy stretch of Japan's coastline suggested the death toll could rise significantly.