Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Terrible Tragedy in Japan

It is terrible what has happened to Japan.  First they get one of the worst earthquakes in their history, along with strong aftershocks.  Then they get slammed by a powerful tsunami that sweeps through towns and cities.  They estimate the death toll can be over 10,000.  Now, they have to worry about nuclear radiation.  Six reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant were compromised as a result of the disaster, which in turn caused a failure of the cooling systems.  There have been explosions and releases of poisonous gases at the plant.  The approximate 140,000 people that live within an 18-mile radius of the plant were told to stay indoors by the government.  Some experts criticized the Japanese government for underestimating the severity of the crisis, and the Americans within 50 miles of the plant were recommended by the U.S. embassy to stay indoors or evacuate the area.  It I were anywhere near the plant, I would frightened.  I would evacuate the area if possible.  I would not want to risk getting poisoned by the noxious gases.  We must hope that the situation will get better.  Fortunately, it is easy for one to help.  By texting a certain number, one can donate $10 to relief efforts.  Artists and celebrities are also selling items whose proceeds will go towards relief efforts, and are urging fans to donate to the cause.
What I find odd is that every year, there seems to be at least one major disaster somewhere around the world that requires the help and attention of many.  Last year, there was the Haitian earthquake and the Gulf oil spill.  In past years, there was Hurricane Katrina and the Indian Ocean tsunami.  Hopefully, the pattern will not continue and there will be nothing big next year, especially with the 2012 prophecy that has many worried.

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