Storm suspends work at Japan Fukushima nuclear plant

[Gerald]

The operator of Japan's crippled nuclear plant has suspended some of its outdoor work due to a tropical storm, just days after it admitted it was not prepared for harsh weather.

Heavy rain and strong winds are hitting north-east Japan, which was devastated in the 11 March earthquake and tsunami.

There are fears that more radioactive material from the Fukushima plant could drain into the land and sea.

Japan's Meteorological Agency has warned of mudslides and floods.

Typhoon Songda weakened to a tropical storm over south-west Japan late on Sunday, but strong winds and rain have continued to pound the north-east of the country.

Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco), which runs the nuclear plant, said it was on alert to ensure that contaminated water in reactor buildings did not flow out.

The level of water in the basement of one of the six reactor buildings rose by nearly 20cm (8in) in 24 hours to nearly 6m (20ft), Tepco said early on Monday.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-13595323


Note: 30 May 2011 Last updated at 14:13 GMT