A 8.9 magnitude earthquake rocked Japan March 11 2011, followed by a devastating Tsunami wave that demolished many seaside ports and towns. Four million people were without power in Tokyo and more than 200,000 people were stranded at various airports throughout Japan.
The repercussions of this event are being felt worldwide. All flights from the US to Tokyo were cancelled, as well as Europe and Southeast Asia. The Pacific rim is a huge center of trade and commerce affecting the entire world. Japan is a nation of islands and it is almost impossible to re-route people on cancelled flights.

Unlike Europe during the volcanic eruption in Iceland last April, where there were alternatives, Japan is unique. It is the third largest world economy, and Japan produces many electronic components that will affect worldwide supply chains for numerous consumer devises.

Japan will recover, it is resilient, but it will take time due to the enormous devastation. This is one of the worst natural disasters in modern history.

Did you know: Japan's Narita International Airport has the world's largest number of jumbo jet take offs and landings? “

Related articles:  Stress Test on Global Supply Chain http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/20/business/20supply.html?_r=1&hp