The earthquake generated a monstrous tsunami that quickly swept across a vast stretch of Japan's eastern coastline. The waves reached astonishing heights, with a maximum recorded run-up height of almost 40 meters (130 feet) in the Iwate Prefecture. Over hundreds of kilometers of coastline, waves frequently exceeded 10 meters (33 feet). The 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami (often referred to as the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami) was an unprecedented natural disaster for Japan, leaving

In the aftermath of the deadliest tsunami in history, many locals and tourists are stranded. Survivors from around the world work together to save lives and are able to achieve some miraculous rescues. However, as the water recedes, the true scale of the disaster becomes clear. Parts three and four of Tsunami: Race Against Time premiere tonight at 9pm on National Geographic UK. | National Geographic UK