Japan has raised the severity rating of its nuclear crisis from level five to the highest level, seven. The 1986 Chernobyl disaster is the only other time a nuclear emergency has been given a level seven. This decision reflects the total release of radiation at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi power plant, which is ongoing, rather than a sudden deterioration. Reporting from Tokyo is Keith Bradsher, reporter for The New York Times. The Japanese government says that the total amount of radiation is 10 percent of what was released at Chernobyl and there’s still nervousness in the country, says Bradsher.
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.