The largest earthquake to hit Japan in 140 years struck northeast Japan Friday triggering a massive tsunami that swept away everything in its path.

The 13-foot tsunami washed away cars and buildings after a deadly 8.9 magnitude earthquake hit the northeastern coast. It was felt in Tokyo where buildings shook violently.

Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency and police say at least 60 people have died. Fires triggered by the quake are burning out of control up and down the coast, including one at an oil refinery.

The quake struck at 2:46 p.m. local time in Japan and was followed by more than 20 aftershocks, including several at least 6.3.

Tsunami warnings have been issued in much of the Pacific Rim, including Hawaii.

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake had just struck the east coast of Japan Thursday morning with a 7.3 quake hitting near Tokyo on Wednesday.

Japan is one of the most earthquake prone countries in the world, but this was the biggest since 1872. Japan lies on the Ring of Fire, an arc of earthquake and volcanic zones that stretches around the Pacific Rim and where about 90% of the world's quakes occur.

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