2004.12.26

Asia-Quake/Tsunami (Reuters) UPDATED Death toll from quake, tsunami at 13 hours after the massive jolt off Sumatra now above 6,300. Could top 10,000. 2004.12.26

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Japan-Tsunami Relief (Kyodo) Japan mulling relief efforts for tsunami-stricken Sri Lanka. 2004.12.26

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Tsunami Kill Thousands in Asia (AP). UPDATED The world's most powerful earthquake in 40 years triggered massive tsunami that slammed into villages and seaside resorts across Sri Lanka, India, the Maldives, the Seychelles and SE Asia today, killing thousands of people in five countries. Tourist beaches on Phuket hard hit. Communications cut with Aceh province, near quake epicenter, in Indonesia. 2004.12.26

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Asia-Tsunami Scientists say NE Asia faces no tsunami threat from the massive quake this morning on Sumatra. The quake has triggered huge multiple tsunami on tourist beaches on Phuket (Thailand), India and southern and eastern coasts of Sri Lanka (1400 km away), as well in other island countries. Quake felt as far away as Singapore and Bangkok. Indonesia says the quake was Richter 6.4 but USGS recorded a much higher figure -- possibly as high as Richter 8.5. The mega-quake also apparently triggered a powerful tremor in Bangladesh. Thailand declares emergency, ordering evacuation of 10,000 people, activates Navy. Sri Lankan reporters talk of an "unprecedented catastrophe" in their country and their are uncofirmed reports that a major hotel has been destroyed. Hundreds believed dead in Sri Lanka, dozens of confirmed fatalities in India and others casualties reported across the Bay of Bengal-- mainly from the tsunami. 2004.12.26

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Japan-Arson (Kyodo) Arson attacks appear to be continuing against Tokyo area discount chain store. 2004.12.26

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