MDA|Minimize Disasters Association
On March 11, 2011, Japan was hit with an unexpected eartquake. This earthquake was massive. It was measured 8.9 on the richter scale.Later, the earthquake was followed by a tsunami, and over 215,000 people are in emergency shelters. More than 2,000 people were killed due to this natural disaster, along with over 1000 seabirds.
Most deaths are due to drowning. Many people are still missing. The tsunami came inland up to six miles in some areas, which is incredible.Some survivors have been trapped in homes and on roofs.
This disaster triggered what seems to be a man-made disaster, a nuclear plant at Fukushima, exploded.To learn more about man-made disasters, click here. Japeneese officials are concerned about two of the plants, and are taking safety precautions. The first explosion was caused by a hydrogen explosion.
Ian Hore- Lacy, of nuclear industry body the World Nuclear Associaton,tells sources,"It is obviously an hydrogen explosion ... due to hydrogen igniting. If the hydrogen has ignited, then it is gone, it doesn't pose any further threat. As far as we know there is no particular danger from radiation leaks. There may be, but we don't know that. There is no reason to suppose that there must be because of that."
Preparing for these natural disasters can be complicated, but we all should take precatuions such as these:
- Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility connections. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.
- Bolt down and secure to the wall studs your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations.
- Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects.
- Store bottled foods, glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut.
- Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
- Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation.
- Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage.
- Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during each drill.
- Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover, and hold on!