A massive earthquake has hit the northeast of Japan triggering a tsunami that has caused extensive damage.

Japan's TV showed cars, ships and even buildings being swept away by a vast wall of water after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake.

Officials said a wave could be as high 10m (33ft). Numerous casualties are feared.

The quake struck about 250 miles (400km) from Tokyo at a depth of 20 miles, shaking building in the capital.

The tremor at 1446 local time (0546 GMT) was followed by a series of powerful aftershocks.

Seismologists say it is one of the largest earthquakes to hit Japan for many years.

The tsunami warning was extended to the Philippines, Indonesia and the Pacific coast of Russia. [ 2011 Sendai Earthquake and Tsunami ]