The disaster in Japan

[Storyteller.]

The disaster in Japan
By Casey (Casey.)

On March 11th 2011 a massive earthquake struck Japan. The 8.9 magnitude was the largest earthquake to hit Japan in over 140 years. It caused multiple aftershocks and tsunami waves that struck several parts of Japan and the tsunami waves hit parts of Hawaii and other pacific islands too. The earthquake caused massive damage and the tsunami destroyed hundreds of homes, taking many lives with them.

The disaster in Japan was escalated by unstable nuclear reactors melting down. With the radiation from the reactors adding to the problem, Japan was falling to pieces. The reactors were eventually stabilized but not before causing some serious harm to the surrounding populations.

Although disaster has been averted, Japan is still picking itself out of the wreckage. With hundreds killed, thousands injured and sick, and several parts of Japan completely destroyed, the country is not doing well. Thousands are homeless and jobless, due to the destruction of businesses. A major staple in Japanese diet is rice, and rice paddies were swept away by the tsunami waters as well. Japan will be trying to fix and rebuild the country for years to come.

So what can you do to help? Well, you can always donate to the Red Cross, or other organizations that are currently helping Japan. You can hold a fundraiser to raise money to rebuild a school. financial support, as well as food and medical support, is really what Japan needs right now. Rebuilding the nation will take time, as will healing the lives that have been altered by this.

The tsunami waters did not just hit Japan, however. Some hit closer to home for many of us. Waves have hit Hawaii and Pacific islands; warnings were issued to South America, Canada, and coastal parts of North America. Some damage was done by these waves. You can also help your local communities by donating food, clothes, money, and blood to local organizations - and in turn improve the lives affected by this terrible disaster.