KTVO viewers are trying to get in touch with friends and loved ones after Friday's magnitude 8.9 earthquake rocks northeastern Japan. Something that happens over six thousands miles away is impacting the heartland. Tonight, Chris Curtis talks with a local resident who has family ties in Japan.

KTVO has learned the latest quake hit early Saturday at a depth of six miles, about 105 miles north of Tokyo. It caused buildings in Tokyo to sway. There were no immediate reports of damage.

Cindy Mullenix

I'm in Orange County, Ca. No worries here really. We're under a warning at the moment and whatever is going to hit should be hitting now buttttt, it is expected to be so small that there should be no concern regarding water coming ashore.... My understanding is it's also occurring during low tide so that helps.

the bigger concern here is the currents offshore so they have closed beaches, harbors, and piers to minimize how many people go surfing. unfortunately there are some stupid people out there surfing already.

I do have a friend in Coos Bay, OR who has been listening to tsunami sirens all night. She should be ok but across the bay where it is flatlands, they have evacuated that area.

I also have a friend from the mainland who is visiting Hawaii right now. We have got word that they are in the clear now. They were moved to higher floors and she said there were waves that came ashore. From what she said the only casualties there so far are some fish that are in the parking lot of the hotel.

Primrose Joyce Everdeen My nephew is at scofield in hawaii on ohau he said just some minor flooding on the beach

Ann McCormack I have a friend in california. I called her and she didnt pick up hfr phone but the answering machine works. Hope she calls me back.

Sandi White Koettel Friends in Chiba Japan (suburb of Tokyo) are fine. They said the worse hit north of them.

We are keeping the vigil up on Facebook and hoping for updates throughout the day on everyone's status.

Here is what congressmen and representatives are saying in regards to the earthquake and tsunami.

“My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan,” said Rep. Braley. “As they struggle to contain the damage and begin the process of recovery, I’m hopeful that the losses are few and the impacted communities are able to rebuild quickly. My Congressional office is fully prepared to help any Iowans that have family in the area or are otherwise impacted by this disaster.”
 
Iowans who are concerned about loved ones in Japan or the Pacific islands are encouraged to contact Rep. Braley’s Davenport office at 563-323-5988. The office will be able to coordinate with the State Department to provide information and emergency assistance for U.S. citizens in the impacted areas.
 
Iowans can also refer to this website for more information: http://braley.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=874:earthquake-and-tsunami-information-for-americans-in-japan&catid=23

- Statement from Iowa Congressman Bruce Braley

“I was saddened to learn of the tragic devastation that rattled the nation of Japan today. Japan is an important and valued partner in our trade and economic development efforts, and they are a friend and ally to our state. I encourage Iowans to help our friends in Japan by donating to the Red Cross. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected.”

- Statement from Iowa Gov. Terry E. Branstad

Find more information from the American Red Cross website 

Southern Prairie Chapter
American Red Cross
641-682-4571

American Red Cross, North Central Missouri Chapter