(Credit: Getty Images)
Japan was hit by a record-breaking 8.9 magnitude earthquake on Friday, March 11. The earthquake was followed by a massive tsunami that devastated much of the coastline. Hundreds of people have been killed, with the number still rising, and thousands are displaced.
People around the world are coming together to help Japan in this time of crisis, and celebs like Lady Gaga and Linkin Park have reached out to their fans to urge them to join in the effort. Here's what you can do to help:
+ Donate to the Red Cross -- A donation will support the Red Cross' disaster relief efforts to help those affected by the earthquake in Japan and tsunami throughout the Pacific
+ Help find loved ones -- From the Red Cross: Inquiries concerning U.S. citizens living or traveling in Japan should be referred to the U.S. State Department's office of Overseas Citizens Services, at 888-407-4747 or 202-647-5225.
+ Stay informed -- The Hawaiian Red Cross is tweeting national announcements from Japan and helping locate U.S. citizens in the area. You can use the hashtag #hitsunami to request help or information.
Head over to MTV Act for more information on where and how to help.