Japanese nuclear plant loses third cooling system

The operator of a quake-stricken nuclear power plant in north-eastern Japan says a third reactor has lost its cooling capacity, which could lead to overheating and an explosion similar to two blasts at its other reactors.

Tokyo Electric Power Co. official Takako Kitajima said Monday that plant workers were preparing to inject seawater into the Fukushima Daiiichii power plant’s Unit 2 to cool down its reactor following the loss of its cooling system.

Mr. Kitajima said officials are also set to take other steps, including a release of pressure through ventilation if the reactor overheats.

No further details were immediately available.