A High-Speed Bullet Train and a Cruise Ship Are Missing in Japan

Details continue to come in about the aftermath of the 8.9 magnitude earthquake in Japan and the devastating tsunami that followed. The death toll, currently in the hundreds, is expected to increase dramatically. Google has launched a person-finder app to try to help people locate missing friends and family members; the Red Cross rounds up some other family-linking options.

Also reported missing, via the Daily Mail, are a high-speed bullet train carrying hundreds and a cruise ship carrying 100 people.

Additionally, a second, 6.6 magnitude quake has hit Japan in the central, mountainous part of the country.

One bright note: Maru the Cat, who has entertained millions with his adorable antics in numerous YouTube videos, is safe. We hope to find, soon, that others are, too.

In the meantime, here are a few ways to help.

• Donate to the Red Cross here or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 from your phone.


• You can text 'JAPAN' or 'QUAKE' to 80888 to make a $10 donation to the Salvation Army.


• Global Giving has a disaster relief fund; you can donate online.


• Doctors Without Borders is sending folks to Japan to help.


• In New York, Mayor Bloomberg's Fund To Advance New York City is accepting donations that will go to help victims.

[JDoll]