Massive Earthquake, Tsunami Strike Japan; Effects Expected Around the Globe [UPDATED]

Hundreds have been found or are presumed dead after a massive earthquake and ensuing tsunami tore through Japan's northeast coast. Some are already declaring the 8.9 magnitude quake the largest ever recorded and after-effects are expected to hit the west coast of the US, the Phillippines, Indonesia and other vulnerable spots. The Internet has sped into action, using Twitter to report updates and Google's crisis response page to report missing persons.

The confirmed death toll currently stands at 288, but that number is expected to rise rapidly. Aftershocks are still being felt at this time.

Live coverage of the ongoing catastrophe can be found at these sites: BBC, CNN,NYT, Al Jazeera, NHK. Photos can be found here.