TEPCO analyzed the data and interviewed operators to put together the sequence of events after the March 11 earthquake. They have determined Unit 1 sustained a full meltdown and the molten mass is at the bottom of the reactor vessel. Units 2 and 3 have damaged fuel and some fuel is melted down but there was always a sufficient level of water in the reactors to prevent a total meltdown. This analysis is important because it affects the methods which will be employed for maintaining cooling and the subsequent removal of the highly radioactive fuel and materials in the reactor.
The pumping out of the Unit 2 and 3 reactor buildings will be suspended by the end of the week because the onsite storage capacity will be full. The water processing facility is under construction and expected to be completed by mid-June. Water continues to be injected into Units 1, 2, and 3. No plans have been announced for how they will handle the additional water.
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