6. Earthquake

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The 2001 earthquake and tsunami was a stark reminder of the trouble these events can cause for man and his technology. The Fukushima nuclear plant was knocked offline before operators could shut it down in an orderly fashion, resulting in explosions and massive released of radiation. The site is still too dangerous for workers and it is believed that tons of radioactive water continues to spill into the Pacific Ocean. Almost three years later, the situation has still not been brought under control and there does not appear to be any solid plan in place yet to accomplish that goal.