A reactor at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant exploded as a direct consequence of the massive 9.0 magnitude Tōhoku earthquake that struck Japan and the resulting tsunami. The natural disasters caused extensive damage to the plant's structures and systems, ultimately leading to the release of radioactive materials into the environment. Initial reports indicated that the explosion might have resulted from hydrogen gas accumulation, a byproduct of water being used to cool the reactors, which were compromised during the earthquake. Emergency teams worked frantically to manage the situation and prevent further radiation leaks, while warnings were issued to residents in the surrounding areas, advising them to evacuate or stay indoors. Evacuation efforts were complicated by the chaotic situation on the ground, as aftershocks continued to rattle the region.

The Japanese government declared a state of emergency, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) became involved to assess the situation and provide assistance. Fires broke out in some structures due to the explosion, and workers at the plant faced grave risks as they attempted to stabilize the nuclear reactors. Over the ensuing days and weeks, coolant systems continued to fail, resulting in partial meltdowns in several reactors, further exacerbating the crisis. The incident underscored the vulnerability of nuclear power plants to natural disasters and prompted global discussions about nuclear safety and disaster response protocols.