Isnt the events happening in these countries right now tragic. There aren’t any words that can explain how it must be over there for the people of these countries. Its sad that both have happened at such a close time frame.
On one scale you have the Total devistation from Chinas 7.8 magnitute quake. This has left buildings crumpled and hundreds and thousands of people homeless. The estimated death toll from this quake is set to be approximately 50,000 people. Can you imagine this, Its almost the same as everyone in my town New Plymouth is dead. Sometimes I feel that having the media as we do plays down the actual realness of the events that are panning out. (From my experiences in afganastan have shown me to appreciate how much we take things for granted.) These are real people like you and me and they are fighting for their lives. Whats amazed me though is Taiwan suspending all their differencies and giving so much humaitarian support. Such a great thing for Taiwan to do (taking in the recent history between China and Taiwan) and is a great credit to their government. Have a look at this youtube clip to see the devistation.
But on the other end of the scale and which is just as bad if not worse is the Cyclone ravaged areas of Myanmar which is truely a disaster zone. The suffering that is going on in this country is among the worst I have seen ever. The widespread devastation from this power category 3 storm has ripped a deep hole in this country. The official death toll stands at 128,000 people and rising by the day. Can you imagine that. The latest census figures put Tauranga at 112,000 people. Thats alot of people killed in a single event. This toll is set to rise because of the ongoing problem of humanitarian support by the military government and the lack of supplies getting to the people who need it. The latest thing I have read is there is another storm heading towards the area now. I believe that the true impact of this storm hasn’t been bought out yet. The military government are limiting the release of information so who knows what the impact is going to be. Here is a CNN Report of the Devistation. and this one MYANMAR – caution this has graphic images of inside pictures
I truely feel for the people affected by both of the natural disasters. The devastation and loss from both of these are beyond what anyone can imagine. I have been involved in some pretty grim events over the past few years and I understand what they might be going through. But I cannot comprehend the pain and suffering that the people are going through. I think its hard to see how much the devastation is from our TV as we see so much of it in movies and shows these days.
I have donated $1000 to the cyclone relief effort through UNICEF and google is going to match every dollar that is donated by another dollar. Go GOOGLE!! Well done. Here is the link. Its a good cause if you feel you can help in any way. UNICEF CYCLONE RELIEF DONATIONS.
Thanks to everyone who does donate. I seriously am touched by these two events. Unlike war where then you still get innocent people involved this is something that noone could have either preicted or prepared for and in both situations there has been nothing anyone could have done to get away from it. But I am quite impressed already from the amount of people who have become involved with the relief efforts, its great how so many people get involved to help people when they are in need. The people in these countries must be hurting. Imagine if it happened here, and if you were loosing your friends and family. Please leave a comment for your support for all affected.
Many Thanks
Deon