Effects of Fukushima plant being felt still

  Large quantities of Plutonium has been leaked into the Japanese countryside from the Fukushima nuclear plant. The tsunami affected plant which was crippled in March has been leaking the harmful radioactive substance into the soil. The substance has been found 40km away from the plant in at least six different places surrounding the plant.

  The vast breadth of the affected area is prompting evacuation orders although none have been issued as of yet. Scientists warn that the long half life of plutonium (up to 24,0000 years) could have long term health hazards on the Japanese populace such as lung cancers and leukemia. Additionally, the Japanese government is in fierce debate about the the severity of the plutonium and whether or not an evacuation is necessary at this point in time.



Locations that Plutonium has been discovered
Image source: http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T111001002464.htm


Articles: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/7e3af460-ece6-11e0-be97-00144feab49a.html#axzz1ZjjjQacc
 http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204226204576604013365441594.html