Entry to evacuation zone now banned

RESIDENTS rushed back into the 20-kilometre evacuation zone around Japan’s radiation-spewing nuclear power plant, grabbing whatever belongings they could before an order went into effect legally banning entry to the area.

A stream of evacuees ventured into deserted towns near the plant, some in white protective suits and others in face masks and rain gear they hoped would protect against radiation. Most raced through the zone with car windows closed, their vehicles crammed with clothing and valuables.

“This is our last chance, but we aren’t going to stay long. We are just getting what we need and getting out,” said Kiyoshi Kitajima, an X-ray technician, who dashed to his hospital in Futaba, a town next-door to the plant, to collect equipment before the order came into effect at midnight.