These are precisely the sentiments expressed by survivors in Sendai, one of the hardest-hit metropolises. Resident Yukiko Kono, says she's worried about her parents' relatives in Kesennuma, a seaside neighborhood. "We haven't been able to get through to them," she said. "We're expecting the worst."

While electricity has returned to parts of the area, water is getting scarce. "An emergency water truck is parked at an elementary school," Kono says, "but we have to wait for hours in a long line." Meanwhile, roads are either badly damaged, or closed, making vehicular transport practically impossible. "We have to walk or ride bicycles to get anywhere, so we can only carry small amounts of water back home."

Sendai's survivors are also worried about food. Long lines are forming at supermarkets, where, given the widespread loss of electricity, staff must use flashlights when working at night. With no refrigeration, perishable items are rotting. Shops are reportedly sold out of batteries, which is limiting people's ability to communicate via mobile phone. "I don't know how long my phone battery will last, so I really should go now," Kono explained in an apologetic tone.