Google puts tsunami alert on home page

WASHINGTON: Google put a tsunami alert on its famously spartan home page on Friday following the strong earthquake in Japan.

"Tsunami Alert for New Zealand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Hawaii, and others," said the message placed below the Internet search box.

"Waves expected over the next few hours, caused by 8.9 earthquake in Japan," it said.

Google frequently makes mapping, communications and other tools available after natural disasters but a news alert message on the Internet giant's home page is unusual.