Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami Aftermath (IMAGE) University of Texas at Austin Caption The Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that struck the coast of Japan on March 11, 2011, killed more than 15,000 people. Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are leading efforts to develop computer models that can improve our understanding of the forces driving such devastating earthquakes. Credit Douglas Sprott Usage Restrictions Include photo credit License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.