Disaster Update from Randy Jordan, CEO of HOPE worldwide
"The disaster in Japan presents a unique challenge of access for relief workers. At first, the immediate devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami restricted access to the disaster area as the Japanese military and professional search and rescue teams moved in to provide assistance. Soon thereafter as you know from the news reports, the natural disaster worsened by the deterioration of three Fukushima nuclear reactors and access became almost impossible.
At the present time, HOPE worldwide's primary response will be providing counseling and psycho-social support for the victims of the disaster, through our partnership with the Tokyo Church of Christ. This was an important component of our response to the Haiti earthquake, as well.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation. Please join with us in praying for the comfort of the disaster victims and strengthening of our church partners who stand ready to help."
UPDATE: Shortages and the Threat of Radiation
March 15, 2011 - As rescue workers rush to save survivors of the March 11 tsunami, many are now concerned about nuclear radiation. This evening, police in Japan reported the death toll now stands at 3,373 and 6,746 people are still missing. Approximately 450,000 people are living in shelters and enduring freezing nighttime temperatures.
Radiation from the Fukushima Nuclear Power plant is a serious concern. The danger zone has been expanded to 30km parameter around the plant. The Japanese government declared a Level 4 radiation risk. Nuclear experts in France declared it a Level 6; one level below the Chernobyl disaster. NHK World reports that the radiation level in Tokyo was 0.809 microsieverts - twice the usual level.
The next several days are crucial for the people of Japan. Not only for the tsunami victims, fighting to survive, but also the people of Tokyo and surrounding cities. Gasoline, rice, toilet paper and batteries have become a scarce commodity. While 80% of Tokyo’s citizens are still working, they are facing a tough challenge; saving the lives of those affected by the tsunami induced by the largest earthquake in Japan’s history since 1900 and preventing a biological disaster.
Local Volunteer Efforts and Needs
HOPE worldwide volunteers arrived in the Sendai area with some supplies. They report Sendai was badly damaged, but did not sustain the worst damage. There are many other areas that suffered more harm. Food and basic necessities are needed, but another important need is psychosocial care for the children affected by the disaster.
HOPE worldwide is standing by to provide support to HOPE worldwide Japan, its local partners, and the people of Japan. We will continue to monitor the situation and communicate with the government of Japan, UN agencies and international community on how we can best assist those in need.
If you would like to donate to aid the disaster relief efforts, click here.
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