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We're still fine here & still watching NHK World, which last week added streaming live video on their website. Check it out - especially at the top of each hour when updated news begins live. News stories you can read are also frequently updated, so info is fresh & factual. I mostly enjoy the human interest stories - helps to balance the tragedy.
The crisis continues at the Daiichi Nuclear plant, but work also continues 24/7 to avert disaster. More foreign assistance has arrived: President Sarkozy of France arrived today, as well as a group of US Marine nuclear emergency specialists. As a reminder - please do not take seriously the "panic" headlines that abound everywhere. This situation changes hour-by-hour, but I believe it will be resolved.
Today NHK showed how people inside evacuation shelters are coping after nearly 3 weeks. Evacuees are recycling cardboard boxes in which supplies have arrived, and are using them to create low "privacy walls" around their family spaces. Whatever little they have with them is organized neat & tidy inside their own little space. Temporary housing units are being built and assignments being made for those who have lost their homes. Evacuees are excited about being able to leave the centers and have more privacy and perhaps, normalcy.
Of course you may have seen that the Emperor and Empress visited an evacuation shelter in Tokyo yesterday. This was unprecedented. This honored royal couple seldom leave the palace, except for rare, formal and/or special occasions. It was heartwarming to see them dressed so casually - like any other elderly couple, kneeling down on the floor to offer words of encouragement to evacuees.
One of the jobs of the 107,000 Japanese self-defense forces (Japan's military) is to recover bodies. They showed a small group working around the ruins of a destroyed school when they discovered the body of a young girl. All the men took off their hats, bowed their heads, and put their hands together for a moment of prayer. I assume they are doing this for each person found. And there are more and more every day.
On a brighter note, I saw my first 2011 cherry blossoms this morning! There's one tree on base that's always the first one to bloom. It's along the golf course in a whole line of trees, but this one apparently is situated to receive the fullest amount of Spring sunlight. Reminds me that there is always hope - and life begins anew. Check out this Cherry Blossom Forecast that the weather will feature on each night's news from now until cherry blossom season ends.
As always, thanks for continuing to read and for letting me know!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Iwakuni Update Mon 3/28
We remain safe here in Iwakuni, but major earthquake aftershocks continue in northern Japan (M6.5 earlier this AM). I woke up to "Breaking News" on NHK World this morning, so that's never good. Earthquakes of this magnitude always increase chance of tsunami, so everyone in that area remains on alert each time another quake strikes.
Over 10,800 people are now confirmed dead, with another 16,200 still missing - some entire families. Many casualties include children who were still at school at 2:46 on that Friday afternoon when the major quake hit, and their teachers did not have time to get them to higher ground before the deadly tsunami washed through buildings. Over 193,000 people remain in evacuation facilities, many of which still do not have power & very little heat as the weather continues to hover around freezing temperatures. 18,000 homes were completely destroyed and another 140,000 homes were damaged. Lots of numbers, but each represents a major event in someone's life which will never, ever be the same.
The nuclear radiation situation continues, as well as heroic measures to control it. Despite all efforts, the leaking issues seem to be worsening more rapidly than repair teams can succeed in such a dangerous environment. Cooling down the reactors but not sacrificing the workers remains the major challenge. But work continues and the situation changes hour-by-hour. We are grateful that NHK World continues to broadcast continuously in English, with updated information starting on the top of each hour. We remain hopeful that this situation will soon be brought under control.
Thanks for your continuing interest.
Over 10,800 people are now confirmed dead, with another 16,200 still missing - some entire families. Many casualties include children who were still at school at 2:46 on that Friday afternoon when the major quake hit, and their teachers did not have time to get them to higher ground before the deadly tsunami washed through buildings. Over 193,000 people remain in evacuation facilities, many of which still do not have power & very little heat as the weather continues to hover around freezing temperatures. 18,000 homes were completely destroyed and another 140,000 homes were damaged. Lots of numbers, but each represents a major event in someone's life which will never, ever be the same.
The nuclear radiation situation continues, as well as heroic measures to control it. Despite all efforts, the leaking issues seem to be worsening more rapidly than repair teams can succeed in such a dangerous environment. Cooling down the reactors but not sacrificing the workers remains the major challenge. But work continues and the situation changes hour-by-hour. We are grateful that NHK World continues to broadcast continuously in English, with updated information starting on the top of each hour. We remain hopeful that this situation will soon be brought under control.
Thanks for your continuing interest.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Iwakuni Update -Thurs 3/24
The overall news here remains positive and hopeful. Although there are setbacks, progress continues - slowly, but surely. When black smoke appeared yesterday at Daiichi nuclear plant, workers were evacuated, but today work has resumed full-force, so the situation continues to change rapidly. Lights have been turned on in at least one of the reactor control rooms (like where Homer Simpson sits), and water cooling continues while equipment is being repaired. Sadly, heard that 3 workers have been exposed to radiation exposure and two are hospitalized. We continue to watch & read NHK World for updates.
Yesterday, some Tokyo water systems were discovered to contain contaminated levels of tap water, but this level is risky only for infants, so the government is recommending use of bottled water for babies under 12 months of age, and is providing bottled water to affected homes with infants. Again, this is ONLY occurring in northern Japan and some areas near Tokyo (@128 miles from Fukushima). Radiation monitoring is ongoing, but of course citizens with small children are especially concerned.
Also, some leafy vegetables from the Fukushima area have been found to contain radiation, so all crops of leafy vegetables from this area have been destroyed. Farmers will be reimbursed for their lost crops, while ALL fresh foods are being tested for radiation exposure. We are not at all concerned here in Iwakuni, and will continue to buy & consume delicious, fresh produce and seafood from our local Japanese stores.
Of course the primary story here remains the ever-growing death toll (9,700) and the thousands still unaccounted for. Cold weather continues in this area, which makes it so much more difficult for evacuees, although more and more areas are receiving needed supplies to ease life for evacuees.
I saw on TV where a group of students had arrived in one of the shelters to provide neck, back and arm massages to the elderly, who were very grateful. These upbeat stories really help to balance the extreme sadness in Japan. As always, thanks for your continued concern and words of encouragement. It helps.
Yesterday, some Tokyo water systems were discovered to contain contaminated levels of tap water, but this level is risky only for infants, so the government is recommending use of bottled water for babies under 12 months of age, and is providing bottled water to affected homes with infants. Again, this is ONLY occurring in northern Japan and some areas near Tokyo (@128 miles from Fukushima). Radiation monitoring is ongoing, but of course citizens with small children are especially concerned.
Also, some leafy vegetables from the Fukushima area have been found to contain radiation, so all crops of leafy vegetables from this area have been destroyed. Farmers will be reimbursed for their lost crops, while ALL fresh foods are being tested for radiation exposure. We are not at all concerned here in Iwakuni, and will continue to buy & consume delicious, fresh produce and seafood from our local Japanese stores.
Of course the primary story here remains the ever-growing death toll (9,700) and the thousands still unaccounted for. Cold weather continues in this area, which makes it so much more difficult for evacuees, although more and more areas are receiving needed supplies to ease life for evacuees.
I saw on TV where a group of students had arrived in one of the shelters to provide neck, back and arm massages to the elderly, who were very grateful. These upbeat stories really help to balance the extreme sadness in Japan. As always, thanks for your continued concern and words of encouragement. It helps.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Iwakuni Update Tues 3/22
It's been a bright sunny day in Iwakuni, Japan and we remain safe, as 24/7 efforts continue at Daichii nuclear reactors to prevent total melt-down. It's important to remember that this HAS NOT occurred in Fukushima - as it did in Chernobyl. Radiation levels are being monitored, and highest levels are concentrated within the 20 km radius of the power plant. Levels are also being monitored all over northern Japan, as well as the seawater offshore. Low-levels of radiation which are not considered a risk to health, are being found further away in northern Japan, likely due to wind & rain dispersion.
Progress at the nuclear power plant is slower than we all wish, but we're all hopeful that meticulously-executed methods will result in total containment. As of today, external power has been restored to all 6 reactors, and pumps & all equipment are carefully being examined for damage before resuming the automatic cooling systems. Meanwhile, creative external seawater cooling processes continue by firefighters, including many from other areas of Japan who have volunteered to assist in this effort.
Please check the frequently updated NHK World English website for related stories and photos. Information in Japan changes on an hour-to-hour basis, so a scary situation in one headline, may quickly be resolved. Please continue to disregard "panic" reports that are not scientifically-based. If anyone's interested here's a link for NHK World English live streaming video.
And major aftershocks continue in the affected area. Check out this AMAZING updated list! All are M5.0 or higher.
Over 9,000 people are now confirmed dead with another 13,000 still unaccounted for. Experts believe these numbers may actually be much higher because so many villages were almost completely wiped out, and there may be no one left to report names of missing loved ones. More trains are running, and with gasoline now more available and more roads opening, family members are traveling into the stricken areas to search for their loved ones, with some sad and some happy outcomes.
Personnel from the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier were flying helicopter relief missions to shelters today in remote areas where roads have not yet been opened. It was heartwarming to see the evacuees' welcoming faces as boxes were delivered, and their grateful bows & waves of thanks as the military departed.
On the TV news tonight, we saw a large group of men enjoying a soak in a temporary hot bath that had been set up in one of the shelters. They were laughing and said it was good to finally feel warm!
Thank you for your continued response and thoughtful concern.
Progress at the nuclear power plant is slower than we all wish, but we're all hopeful that meticulously-executed methods will result in total containment. As of today, external power has been restored to all 6 reactors, and pumps & all equipment are carefully being examined for damage before resuming the automatic cooling systems. Meanwhile, creative external seawater cooling processes continue by firefighters, including many from other areas of Japan who have volunteered to assist in this effort.
Please check the frequently updated NHK World English website for related stories and photos. Information in Japan changes on an hour-to-hour basis, so a scary situation in one headline, may quickly be resolved. Please continue to disregard "panic" reports that are not scientifically-based. If anyone's interested here's a link for NHK World English live streaming video.
And major aftershocks continue in the affected area. Check out this AMAZING updated list! All are M5.0 or higher.
Over 9,000 people are now confirmed dead with another 13,000 still unaccounted for. Experts believe these numbers may actually be much higher because so many villages were almost completely wiped out, and there may be no one left to report names of missing loved ones. More trains are running, and with gasoline now more available and more roads opening, family members are traveling into the stricken areas to search for their loved ones, with some sad and some happy outcomes.
Personnel from the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier were flying helicopter relief missions to shelters today in remote areas where roads have not yet been opened. It was heartwarming to see the evacuees' welcoming faces as boxes were delivered, and their grateful bows & waves of thanks as the military departed.
On the TV news tonight, we saw a large group of men enjoying a soak in a temporary hot bath that had been set up in one of the shelters. They were laughing and said it was good to finally feel warm!
Thank you for your continued response and thoughtful concern.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Iwakuni Update Mon 3/21
Today is Vernal Equinox Day - "This Japanese national holiday was established in 1948 as a day for the admiration of nature and the love of living things. Prior to 1948, the vernal equinox was an imperial ancestor worship festival called Shunki kōrei-sai." -Wikipedia.org
But I don't think there will be many celebrations this year. . .
We are still safe here and life continues to go on as usual, although military from MCAS Iwakuni are participating in humanitarian efforts, named Operation Tomodachi (friendship) & our base has become a staging area. Hundreds of boxes with needed supplies have been prepared and shipped from our base, thanks to hard-working volunteers. If you want to donate from the US, here's a link to Japan's Red Cross Society.
Backup power systems to Reactors # 5 & 6 have been restored, so these 2 should be out of danger now - just 4 more to go! Japan's transport ministry has started disclosing radiation levels near the 2 international airports in the Tokyo metropolitan area in an effort to dispel unfounded fear. Radiation levels fluctuate, and remain high immediately around the areas of the damaged power plants, but no dangerous levels have been found outside this area. Please try to refrain from or take seriously any reports that promote fear. PLEASE READ THIS! (Thanks, Jake for posting on FB!)
Death tolls have risen to over 8,600 with over 13,000 still missing. More than a quarter-million people displaced from earthquakes, tsunami, and those living in areas near the damaged nuclear reactors have been evacuated into over 2300 shelters across northern Japan. Many are overcrowded and are running low on basic needs as more and more are evacuated. But hot food and hot foot baths have been provided by unaffected communities to those in some shelters, and these little luxuries really help to raise spirits amidst hardship. Saw where a sports clothing shop was giving away all their clothing to survivors in their village since they do not intend to continue their destroyed business. Temporary housing is already being built in many areas, and will be completed by the end of the month.
Good news late yesterday afternoon when two survivors were rescued from their collapsed home after 10 days! READ HERE!
But I don't think there will be many celebrations this year. . .
We are still safe here and life continues to go on as usual, although military from MCAS Iwakuni are participating in humanitarian efforts, named Operation Tomodachi (friendship) & our base has become a staging area. Hundreds of boxes with needed supplies have been prepared and shipped from our base, thanks to hard-working volunteers. If you want to donate from the US, here's a link to Japan's Red Cross Society.
Backup power systems to Reactors # 5 & 6 have been restored, so these 2 should be out of danger now - just 4 more to go! Japan's transport ministry has started disclosing radiation levels near the 2 international airports in the Tokyo metropolitan area in an effort to dispel unfounded fear. Radiation levels fluctuate, and remain high immediately around the areas of the damaged power plants, but no dangerous levels have been found outside this area. Please try to refrain from or take seriously any reports that promote fear. PLEASE READ THIS! (Thanks, Jake for posting on FB!)
Death tolls have risen to over 8,600 with over 13,000 still missing. More than a quarter-million people displaced from earthquakes, tsunami, and those living in areas near the damaged nuclear reactors have been evacuated into over 2300 shelters across northern Japan. Many are overcrowded and are running low on basic needs as more and more are evacuated. But hot food and hot foot baths have been provided by unaffected communities to those in some shelters, and these little luxuries really help to raise spirits amidst hardship. Saw where a sports clothing shop was giving away all their clothing to survivors in their village since they do not intend to continue their destroyed business. Temporary housing is already being built in many areas, and will be completed by the end of the month.
Good news late yesterday afternoon when two survivors were rescued from their collapsed home after 10 days! READ HERE!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Iwakuni Update Sun 3/20
Nothing dramatically new to report today . . . unceasing & heroic attempts are continuing to control nuclear reactors overheating issues in Sendai, and detailed explanations continue to be televised on NHK World. Their website is also an excellent source of updated info, so check this link often.
The Super Moon last night - once it rose above the clouds over the sea - was sugoi! (amazing!) so hope you enjoyed it where you are.
It's a gloomy, rainy day in Iwakuni, Japan and we remain sad, but safe and reassured. Every time I crawl into my warm cozy bed, I think about those who are without these simple comforts that we take for granted . . .
Thanks for continuing to read and for your interest and caring!
The Super Moon last night - once it rose above the clouds over the sea - was sugoi! (amazing!) so hope you enjoyed it where you are.
It's a gloomy, rainy day in Iwakuni, Japan and we remain sad, but safe and reassured. Every time I crawl into my warm cozy bed, I think about those who are without these simple comforts that we take for granted . . .
Thanks for continuing to read and for your interest and caring!
Live Food at Akiyama! Sat 3/19
We've ridden our bikes off-base to have sushi for lunch at our favorite sushi-go-round - Akiyama on Hwy 188. The lady sitting next to me has ordered & received a dish that caught my attention. When I looked closer, I realized that it is nori (seaweed)-wrapped rice with tiny little fish on top, but they are ALIVE & each time she removes the cover, they jump out! Take a look . . .
When I asked this lady if the little lively fish were "oishi?" (delicious), she replied, "no, but they are for my health." The last time I saw someone eating this dish, it was an elderly lady, whose daughter told me that her mother (who did not speak English) was telling the fish "gomenasai (sorry) for eating you!"
Watching sushi chefs do their magic inside Akiyama. They take good care of us here & always know what we like!
Flowers outside a business on Hwy 188.
We decided to pedal up the hill to MaxValu supermarket & buy some fresh foods. Here Stan is having our bakery selections wrapped & priced. Behind him is a vending machine where you can buy coffee & several tables where you can sit & enjoy - how convenient!
Closer view of some of the breads & pastries. These will all sell out today & tomorrow all will be fresh.
Watching sushi chefs do their magic inside Akiyama. They take good care of us here & always know what we like!
Flowers outside a business on Hwy 188.
We decided to pedal up the hill to MaxValu supermarket & buy some fresh foods. Here Stan is having our bakery selections wrapped & priced. Behind him is a vending machine where you can buy coffee & several tables where you can sit & enjoy - how convenient!
Closer view of some of the breads & pastries. These will all sell out today & tomorrow all will be fresh.
Standing in produce, looking toward floral department. I'm buying from both areas today, as well as fish & meats to last us a few days.
Crossing a bridge on our ride back home. The tide is out & I'm catching my breath on the bridge. It's a little uphill pedaling onto the bridge & I'm hauling a heavy load from the grocery store on my bike.
Looking into someone's back-yard garden on our shortcut back to the air station.
Approaching the Main Gate you can see both flags - the Japanese flag remains half-staff. That's me reflected in the traffic mirror. You can click on the picture to enlarge, but don't forget to back-arrow to return to the blog!
Beautiful & fragrant flowers from the floral shop inside MaxValu supermarket today. These help me feel more cheerful. Pink tulips & carnations and white freesia, but I don't know what the dark purple are. The delicate fragrance of the freesia always reminds me of Holly.
Crossing a bridge on our ride back home. The tide is out & I'm catching my breath on the bridge. It's a little uphill pedaling onto the bridge & I'm hauling a heavy load from the grocery store on my bike.
Looking into someone's back-yard garden on our shortcut back to the air station.
Approaching the Main Gate you can see both flags - the Japanese flag remains half-staff. That's me reflected in the traffic mirror. You can click on the picture to enlarge, but don't forget to back-arrow to return to the blog!
Beautiful & fragrant flowers from the floral shop inside MaxValu supermarket today. These help me feel more cheerful. Pink tulips & carnations and white freesia, but I don't know what the dark purple are. The delicate fragrance of the freesia always reminds me of Holly.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Sat PM - 3/19 Iwakuni Update
News has slowed considerably today & I'm taking that as a good sign.
According to NHK World website and tonight's news, progress continues with connecting external power to all reactors' cooling units (2 have been connected at this point & all are expected to be connected on Sunday), but progress is slower than anticipated because of radiation contamination and debris everywhere. Cooling reactors with seawater has continued most of the day, with success in lowering temperatures, and radiation levels have continued to fall as cooling continues. Manual water cooling will continue until power is connected to all reactors and pumps are successfully working again to cool automatically, in order to prevent melt-down. I remain confident all these heroic efforts will be successful.
Disaster fire engine buses are being utilized which provide more personal protection to firefighters, but difficulties arise driving these large vehicles through some roads that are still partially blocked with tons of debris. Radiation levels are being constantly monitored in contaminated areas, and firefighters are being rotated in & out for their safety. Once they have received a maximum level of radiation exposure, firefighters are not sent back in, and are replaced by more firefighters. One firefighter said on TV that none of them are able to see their families who are evacuated, but they are happy to help. When he texted his wife that he was soon going to be sent into the radiation area, she texted back, "Be a savior for Japan."
Information is available in great detail and runs continuously on our NHK World TV station, which is always in English. For this we are VERY grateful!
I watched an interesting TV program earlier concerning evacuees & how important it is for neighbors to be relocated together as much as possible, so that survivors are living among friends and/or family at this stressful and difficult time. Necessary supplies - medical, food, water, clothing, heating fuel- continue to arrive, although some areas are still waiting. The weather remains extremely cold. Clean up continues everywhere, as well as people still searching for missing loved ones. All shelters have lists inside the door of those residing in the shelter, so everyone can be accounted for. Of course, the death toll continues to mount (over 7,000 confirmed by tonight with as many as 12,000 still missing), but hearing an occasional happy story really helps to boost spirits. The Japanese are "holding on, bearing up." Ganbatte. It's the Japanese way.
According to NHK World website and tonight's news, progress continues with connecting external power to all reactors' cooling units (2 have been connected at this point & all are expected to be connected on Sunday), but progress is slower than anticipated because of radiation contamination and debris everywhere. Cooling reactors with seawater has continued most of the day, with success in lowering temperatures, and radiation levels have continued to fall as cooling continues. Manual water cooling will continue until power is connected to all reactors and pumps are successfully working again to cool automatically, in order to prevent melt-down. I remain confident all these heroic efforts will be successful.
Disaster fire engine buses are being utilized which provide more personal protection to firefighters, but difficulties arise driving these large vehicles through some roads that are still partially blocked with tons of debris. Radiation levels are being constantly monitored in contaminated areas, and firefighters are being rotated in & out for their safety. Once they have received a maximum level of radiation exposure, firefighters are not sent back in, and are replaced by more firefighters. One firefighter said on TV that none of them are able to see their families who are evacuated, but they are happy to help. When he texted his wife that he was soon going to be sent into the radiation area, she texted back, "Be a savior for Japan."
Information is available in great detail and runs continuously on our NHK World TV station, which is always in English. For this we are VERY grateful!
I watched an interesting TV program earlier concerning evacuees & how important it is for neighbors to be relocated together as much as possible, so that survivors are living among friends and/or family at this stressful and difficult time. Necessary supplies - medical, food, water, clothing, heating fuel- continue to arrive, although some areas are still waiting. The weather remains extremely cold. Clean up continues everywhere, as well as people still searching for missing loved ones. All shelters have lists inside the door of those residing in the shelter, so everyone can be accounted for. Of course, the death toll continues to mount (over 7,000 confirmed by tonight with as many as 12,000 still missing), but hearing an occasional happy story really helps to boost spirits. The Japanese are "holding on, bearing up." Ganbatte. It's the Japanese way.
Sat AM 3/19 - MCAS Iwakuni, Japan
View from BR window over the flight line & beyond to the Seto Inland Sea. This huge ship has been here all week.
It's always good to wake up in Japan and NOT see "Breaking News" on local TV! Heroic efforts continue to contain & prevent major radiation release. Firefighters are continuing to spray seawater in an attempt to cool the overheating reactors, and power company employees are working non-stop to restore power to the cooling pumps, which is VERY encouraging news this morning. Once power is restored, then it will be determined how to repair pumps which were designed to continuously cool reactors - before the devastating earthquakes and tsunami on Friday March 11.
WHO (World Health Organization) has announced "No radiation risk outside evacuation zone" - so please read this article (and others on this local site) from NHK World. This is GREAT NEWS and hopefully, will help calm fears around the world! Please share this information!
This morning, Stan checked his school email and found a message that had arrived after 5 PM yesterday - he was already gone from school since it was a Friday. It provided information regarding all DoDDS schools on Honshu Island of Japan, many of which are in or near the stricken area. We were surprised to read that Iwakuni (and other bases south of Osaka) was specifically excluded from the "voluntary evacuation" (different info than we had received earlier in the afternoon!) So, we're taking this as more very good news for Iwakuni! FYI - "Voluntary" evacuation means that if you choose to go, you sign an IOU agreeing to reimburse the government for the cost of your transportation. I assume this would not be the case if the situation were to become emergent and we were required to leave.
As for us in Iwakuni Japan, we watch & wait. Life continues here, but like the rest of the world, we grieve for those lost and missing, and the thousands of victims and evacuees still struggling to survive in shelters. Their hope, cooperation, and tenacity in these difficult times is extraordinarily admirable. Thanks for your continued interest and expressions of concern and please do not worry!
Even though it's been a very cold Spring so far, I found these daffodils bravely blooming on my BR balcony - a sure sign of hope!
It's always good to wake up in Japan and NOT see "Breaking News" on local TV! Heroic efforts continue to contain & prevent major radiation release. Firefighters are continuing to spray seawater in an attempt to cool the overheating reactors, and power company employees are working non-stop to restore power to the cooling pumps, which is VERY encouraging news this morning. Once power is restored, then it will be determined how to repair pumps which were designed to continuously cool reactors - before the devastating earthquakes and tsunami on Friday March 11.
WHO (World Health Organization) has announced "No radiation risk outside evacuation zone" - so please read this article (and others on this local site) from NHK World. This is GREAT NEWS and hopefully, will help calm fears around the world! Please share this information!
This morning, Stan checked his school email and found a message that had arrived after 5 PM yesterday - he was already gone from school since it was a Friday. It provided information regarding all DoDDS schools on Honshu Island of Japan, many of which are in or near the stricken area. We were surprised to read that Iwakuni (and other bases south of Osaka) was specifically excluded from the "voluntary evacuation" (different info than we had received earlier in the afternoon!) So, we're taking this as more very good news for Iwakuni! FYI - "Voluntary" evacuation means that if you choose to go, you sign an IOU agreeing to reimburse the government for the cost of your transportation. I assume this would not be the case if the situation were to become emergent and we were required to leave.
As for us in Iwakuni Japan, we watch & wait. Life continues here, but like the rest of the world, we grieve for those lost and missing, and the thousands of victims and evacuees still struggling to survive in shelters. Their hope, cooperation, and tenacity in these difficult times is extraordinarily admirable. Thanks for your continued interest and expressions of concern and please do not worry!
Even though it's been a very cold Spring so far, I found these daffodils bravely blooming on my BR balcony - a sure sign of hope!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Friday Afternoon Update
Water is again being utilized, this time pumper firetrucks borrowed from US military, in an attempt to cool down the overheating reactors with tons of seawater. Rising vapor is being interpreted as indications that this process is working. What everyone needs to understand here is that these are stop-gap measures until power is successfully restored, pumps start working, and normal cooling can occur. CHECK HERE! Similar efforts were taken yesterday using helicopters dropping water, and the radiation levels dropped slightly as a result, which Japan news sources reported as successful, but some US sources, reported as a failure. US news media spreading fear and panic is NOT helping this delicate situation.
Japan, with assistance from the US and several other countries' nuclear scientists, is planning and implementing a myriad of preventive courses to take, but it is only Japanese personnel - military and firemen (public service folks) - who are the ones risking their health and their lives immediately near the reactors, in order to prevent the worst-case scenario not only for Japan, but for the entire world, IF a major nuclear melt-down and subsequent explosion were to occur. Right now, all the risk and danger remains in Northern Japan, immediately surrounding the damaged nuclear plants.
In addition, US military are in & out of the surrounding area delivering desperately-needed supplies and assistance to victims, and we hear that some "may" have been slightly exposed to radiation as well, although all protective measures were utilized and medical help is being provided if necessary. No injuries are reported. We cannot begin to express our gratitude to all of these brave heroes who are choosing to remain in harm's way . . .
Just received info from Stan that there IS now a voluntary evacuation of the entire Island of Honshu (the big one where we are located at the south-west end & the disaster is located at the north-east end), so although I am authorized to leave, Stan is considered "essential & not authorized" as a teacher, so we stay - for now. Of course - & I repeat - IF our location were to become dangerous, we would ALL be authorized & required to leave. . . We are still confident that the reactors will be prevented from permanent damage & the pumps will start working again, averting a worse crisis. Thanks for your continued prayers and encouragement.
Japan, with assistance from the US and several other countries' nuclear scientists, is planning and implementing a myriad of preventive courses to take, but it is only Japanese personnel - military and firemen (public service folks) - who are the ones risking their health and their lives immediately near the reactors, in order to prevent the worst-case scenario not only for Japan, but for the entire world, IF a major nuclear melt-down and subsequent explosion were to occur. Right now, all the risk and danger remains in Northern Japan, immediately surrounding the damaged nuclear plants.
In addition, US military are in & out of the surrounding area delivering desperately-needed supplies and assistance to victims, and we hear that some "may" have been slightly exposed to radiation as well, although all protective measures were utilized and medical help is being provided if necessary. No injuries are reported. We cannot begin to express our gratitude to all of these brave heroes who are choosing to remain in harm's way . . .
Just received info from Stan that there IS now a voluntary evacuation of the entire Island of Honshu (the big one where we are located at the south-west end & the disaster is located at the north-east end), so although I am authorized to leave, Stan is considered "essential & not authorized" as a teacher, so we stay - for now. Of course - & I repeat - IF our location were to become dangerous, we would ALL be authorized & required to leave. . . We are still confident that the reactors will be prevented from permanent damage & the pumps will start working again, averting a worse crisis. Thanks for your continued prayers and encouragement.
Friday AM
Japan's NHK World is reporting that radiation levels around the damaged reactors is down after cooling efforts began yesterday. Tokyo Electric Power is in the process of restoring power lines to failed reactor pumps, which are hoped to be connected by tonight, but increased radiation exposure immediately surrounding the reactors is a risk for workers. NHK World English
I DO appreciate everyone’s concern and have received several articles this morning concerning voluntary military base evacuations, so I wanted to read everything before I posted. And I know it’s scary – but I am trying to remain calm. Nothing seems urgent here – no “Breaking News” on Japanese TV and nothing from the Commanding Officer (CO) on any of our local channels this morning. Stan has heard nothing new at school, so we believe that nothing has changed here overnight & we’re still safe here in Iwakuni. (Please check the blog entry below for info from our CO last night.)
As I posted on FB a little earlier this morning, my understanding of military evacuation is that you leave EVERYTHING behind, including pets which are euthanized. As long as there has NOT yet been a radiation explosion (reactor hydrogen explosions, but none have been actual melt-down radiation explosions) the situation is not yet out of control & no neutron radiation reported. So we will stay on alert, but remain here. US military are always cautious where family and civilians are concerned – and I am confident that radiation levels are being monitored all over Japan. If anything changes and we must evacuate, then of course we will & we will do our best to keep you updated. But for now, we stay. We love you all and appreciate your concern.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Thurs PM Japan Update
Good news! Train lines are being restored - and some are already running into stricken areas, so desperately needed supplies are being delivered to those in need. Phone lines & power lines are being recovered, but until then, mobile stations are being provided to many of the evacuation areas, so that survivors can telephone their loved ones. Radiation leakage in the areas surrounding the nuclear reactors is preventing delivery of needed supplies, although many roads are now open. Doctors and other medical professionals are finally able to get through to help the injured and sick.
Also, heard at a base briefing tonight that Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni is participating in a mission supporting humanitarian efforts to the disaster area in Northern Japan. We have become somewhat of a staging area, with so many bases in Northern Japan affected. We greatly appreciate and are so proud of our Marines & Navy personnel sharing their professionalism, expertise and compassion with our Japanese neighbors. Our Commanding Officer reminded base citizens that here in Iwakuni, we are in NO danger of radiation (too far away & prevailing wind direction) and to please stay calm. He suggested that everyone would be wise to disregard the "sensationalism TV news" coming from US news sources, and instead obtain updated info through military sources or BBC.
On Japanese TV, I heard that another M5.8 earthquake has just struck in the same area of Northern Japan, but no damage or tsunami warning is reported at this time.
Japanese citizens (and American bases) are doing their best to reduce their power usage - businesses closing early, fewer commuter trains running, even turning off lights, so this will help reduce the blackouts that have been occurring to conserve energy. Everyone is cooperating.
As of 10 PM Thurs, confirmed death toll is over 5600, with over 9500 still unaccounted for. I know that your prayers and thoughts are greatly appreciated.
I found this interesting and very comprehensive website (with current updates) which addresses ways that Japan has been impacted as a result of (what is now named) The 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and subsequent tsunami from last Friday. READ HERE!
Also, heard at a base briefing tonight that Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni is participating in a mission supporting humanitarian efforts to the disaster area in Northern Japan. We have become somewhat of a staging area, with so many bases in Northern Japan affected. We greatly appreciate and are so proud of our Marines & Navy personnel sharing their professionalism, expertise and compassion with our Japanese neighbors. Our Commanding Officer reminded base citizens that here in Iwakuni, we are in NO danger of radiation (too far away & prevailing wind direction) and to please stay calm. He suggested that everyone would be wise to disregard the "sensationalism TV news" coming from US news sources, and instead obtain updated info through military sources or BBC.
On Japanese TV, I heard that another M5.8 earthquake has just struck in the same area of Northern Japan, but no damage or tsunami warning is reported at this time.
Japanese citizens (and American bases) are doing their best to reduce their power usage - businesses closing early, fewer commuter trains running, even turning off lights, so this will help reduce the blackouts that have been occurring to conserve energy. Everyone is cooperating.
As of 10 PM Thurs, confirmed death toll is over 5600, with over 9500 still unaccounted for. I know that your prayers and thoughts are greatly appreciated.
I found this interesting and very comprehensive website (with current updates) which addresses ways that Japan has been impacted as a result of (what is now named) The 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and subsequent tsunami from last Friday. READ HERE!
Thurs AM
I'm watching live Japanese TV as water is being dropped by Japanese Self-Defense Forces helicopter into the nuclear reactors that are overheating, in an effort to cool them down. Let's all pray that this works! And please pray for the safety and health of these workers who are carrying out this very risky mission. So far, 4 loads of 7.5 tons each of seawater has been dumped. READ HERE!
Also, happy to hear this morning that the consensus of nuclear physicists around the world seems to be that although the radiation level is high in the immediate vicinity of the damaged reactors, radiation is NOT a threat to the rest of the world - at least not at this time, as long as the reactors do not explode. This is very good news, and hopefully will help to calm worldwide fears.
As of this morning, more than 5,000 people are confirmed dead, with many thousands still unaccounted for, and thousands are in evacuation shelters. Just overwhelming sadness . . .
Also, happy to hear this morning that the consensus of nuclear physicists around the world seems to be that although the radiation level is high in the immediate vicinity of the damaged reactors, radiation is NOT a threat to the rest of the world - at least not at this time, as long as the reactors do not explode. This is very good news, and hopefully will help to calm worldwide fears.
As of this morning, more than 5,000 people are confirmed dead, with many thousands still unaccounted for, and thousands are in evacuation shelters. Just overwhelming sadness . . .
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wed Night Update
Heard on tonight's news that some of the roads and harbors in the worst stricken areas have been cleared and reopened. This will greatly help with delivery of desperately needed relief supplies waiting to be delivered to the disaster areas: food, clothes, blankets, water, heating fuel, medicine. Red Cross of Japan is a good place to make a donation if you have not already done so. Here's a link to Red Cross of Japan for more info.
To make matters worse, the weather has remained unseasonably cold in much of Japan (we actually had snow here this morning!) and the affected areas are terribly cold with much new snow. So the relief supplies are desperately needed to keep the victims alive and well. There are so many continuing to suffer.
And please keep praying that the experts will find solutions to solve the nuclear radiation issues, before it becomes catastrophic. Thanks.
To make matters worse, the weather has remained unseasonably cold in much of Japan (we actually had snow here this morning!) and the affected areas are terribly cold with much new snow. So the relief supplies are desperately needed to keep the victims alive and well. There are so many continuing to suffer.
And please keep praying that the experts will find solutions to solve the nuclear radiation issues, before it becomes catastrophic. Thanks.
Tokyo Area Earthquakes Continue - Iwakuni Update
1 PM Wednesday: Major earthquake aftershocks - M 6.0 and greater - continue to shake Tokyo and Sendai areas, the latest less than an hour ago. At this moment, no tsunami warnings are up. CLICK ON THIS LINK to see a time-lapse of aftershocks - amazing!
WHERE ARE WE? - 30 km west (actually due south) of Hiroshima on the seacoast of Seto Inland Sea . . . CHECK THIS MAP
We had low 40s and snow this morning in Iwakuni. Unseasonably cold & snowy weather is occurring in much of Japan and we are especially concerned about surviving earthquake, tsunami victims & nuclear reactor evacuees suffering from cold with lack of electricity, heat, blankets, food. We are all feeling very helpless . . .
WHERE ARE WE? - 30 km west (actually due south) of Hiroshima on the seacoast of Seto Inland Sea . . . CHECK THIS MAP
We had low 40s and snow this morning in Iwakuni. Unseasonably cold & snowy weather is occurring in much of Japan and we are especially concerned about surviving earthquake, tsunami victims & nuclear reactor evacuees suffering from cold with lack of electricity, heat, blankets, food. We are all feeling very helpless . . .
Nuclear Power Plant Update . . .
Wed AM - Yesterday morning I woke up to news of another reactor explosion (the third) and they thought this one “might be” the worst possible scenario, but the news remained cautious all day as the fire extinguished naturally. Cooling by seawater continues & all efforts are being made to prevent major radiation disaster. Evacuation area keeps growing wider however, and some of the nearby bases are on alert, but not yet evacuated. We’re receiving live news 24/7 in English from several different countries, so we are well informed. I’ve noticed that all major US networks have now deployed newscasters here in Japan, but keep in mind that (I’m sorry to say) some US shows prefer to incite fear. and But certainly people are anxious. We remain very safe here – 700 miles to the south & west - especially as long as the wind continues to blow from west to east across Japan and out into the vast Pacific where it’s said to dissipate. US military ships that were in the sea east of the affected areas helping with humanitarian efforts have had to move out of harm's way.
Earlier this morning, there was another explosion and fire in one of the reactors in the same location as yesterday, but I understand that this fire is also now extinguished. A Japanese scientist has said that this nuclear problem at Fukushima is nowhere near a "Chernobyl situation" because all the reactors in Japan in the earthquake area were automatically shut off when the major earthquake occurred, which makes it much less risk of radiation exposure. This morning’s fire is being reported as a hydrogen explosion as well. The radiation level is reported as high in the immediate area, so it is difficult for workers to stay in the area very long. I fear that the 50 brave Japanese workers who remain have indeed agreed to become Japanese heroes . . .
We're constantly receiving very detailed, scientific information provided on Japanese TV – (as well as on BCC World) . . . The Japanese government seems very open about releasing ongoing information, but the information is also very cautious. It is important for the public to remain calm. Fear of radiation exposure & sickness is a very sensitive subject, as many citizens are still living who survived the atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki and remember well that horror.
I remain confident that Japan (if anyone can!) WILL be able to solve this nuclear issue without major radiation disaster. Japan has been successfully using nuclear power for 40 years – without previous incident - and successfully providing more than 1/3 of the power to this country. As is the norm across Japanese culture, I believe the nuclear power plant workers here are also professional, competent and conscientious, so I remain encouraged. Please try not to worry! We are still fine.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Before & After Satellite Photos
Check out these New York Times "before & after" photos recently posted online. Drag the center bar left & right to make comparison. They are just beyond comment . . .
Continuing updates: On Mon AM, another M 6.2 earthquake occurred in Northern Japan, and initially tsunami warnings went up, but were soon cancelled. More nuclear facilities north of Tokyo are experiencing potentially hazardous situations, and aggressive measures are being taken to control radiation spillage. We are still NOT directly affected in our part of Japan, but remain heartsick for these continuing tragedies.
Continuing updates: On Mon AM, another M 6.2 earthquake occurred in Northern Japan, and initially tsunami warnings went up, but were soon cancelled. More nuclear facilities north of Tokyo are experiencing potentially hazardous situations, and aggressive measures are being taken to control radiation spillage. We are still NOT directly affected in our part of Japan, but remain heartsick for these continuing tragedies.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Earthquakes Continue . . .
Check here for NHK World online - current updates on the nuclear accident near Tokyo due to severe earthquake, as well as other updated news from Japan.
Check out this current list of world earthquakes - most in Japan - ALL are 5.0 magnitude or higher! The more severe quakes are in red. This gives you an idea of how many quakes have occurred here since 3:45 on Friday afternoon.
Sun Noon - Just heard on Japanese TV that the 8.8 magnitude quake on Friday has now been upgraded to 9.0.
Saturday PM - We are no longer under tsunami warning area here on the Seto Inland Sea.
Check out this current list of world earthquakes - most in Japan - ALL are 5.0 magnitude or higher! The more severe quakes are in red. This gives you an idea of how many quakes have occurred here since 3:45 on Friday afternoon.
Sun Noon - Just heard on Japanese TV that the 8.8 magnitude quake on Friday has now been upgraded to 9.0.
Saturday PM - We are no longer under tsunami warning area here on the Seto Inland Sea.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
We are safe but . . .
For those of you not following on FB, we are safe here in Southwestern Japan on the Seto Inland Sea, but all seacoast areas on open water - Sea of Japan as well as Pacific - remain under tsunami warnings as earthquake aftershocks continue from the devastating 8.8 earthquake near Sendai in Northern Japan. We have been glued to the TV for about 24 hours now, after hearing about the strong earthquakes and tsunami that continue to hit Northern Japan. The photos & videos we're seeing are indeed overwhelming and horrifying - yet everything here in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture remains the same.
We are heartbroken for our Japanese neighbors to the north. Although we are NOT in the affected area, phone and internet services remain intermittent all over Japan from damage and overuse.
Thanks to all of you who have emailed and contacted us. If you're interested in more info, check out these links for Earthquake & Tsunami warnings. If you click on "Previous Information" on the Earthquake page, you can see the date stamp & have an idea of how many earthquakes have occurred within the past 24 hours since "The Big One" - absolutely amazing!
I am very grateful to Japan's NHK World and BS2 television stations for providing continuing disaster info - in English (as well as many other foreign languages) - on Japanese TV during this info during such a frightening time. Japan is extremely prepared and organized in time of disaster - they have lived with typhoons, volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunami for thousands of years. But their preparedness, professionalism, calmness, and skill at such times continues to amaze me!
If you are able, please follow us on Facebook for updates. And thank you for continuing to keep up with our adventures in this beautiful country.
~Margie
Saturday @ 3:45 PM
We are heartbroken for our Japanese neighbors to the north. Although we are NOT in the affected area, phone and internet services remain intermittent all over Japan from damage and overuse.
Thanks to all of you who have emailed and contacted us. If you're interested in more info, check out these links for Earthquake & Tsunami warnings. If you click on "Previous Information" on the Earthquake page, you can see the date stamp & have an idea of how many earthquakes have occurred within the past 24 hours since "The Big One" - absolutely amazing!
I am very grateful to Japan's NHK World and BS2 television stations for providing continuing disaster info - in English (as well as many other foreign languages) - on Japanese TV during this info during such a frightening time. Japan is extremely prepared and organized in time of disaster - they have lived with typhoons, volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunami for thousands of years. But their preparedness, professionalism, calmness, and skill at such times continues to amaze me!
If you are able, please follow us on Facebook for updates. And thank you for continuing to keep up with our adventures in this beautiful country.
~Margie
Saturday @ 3:45 PM
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Happy Birthday Cody!
Grandson Cody is 4 today - can't believe it! Although we were able to Skype, I feel very far away . . .
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Margie's Birthday Dinner 3/5/11
The sun is setting over the Hwy 188 bridge as we ride our bikes across the pedestrian bridge toward downtown. Tide is out so the water is very low right now. We're heading toward the Bluebird Restaurant for my birthday dinner. Although it's Saturday night & my birthday is officially Sunday (3/6), the Bluebird is closed on Sunday.
Looking back the other direction toward the high arched car bridge & the Inland Sea beyond, it's still light. Little boats are patiently waiting for their owners to return.
And now we're patiently waiting for the very colorful Nishiki River trolley at the downtown crossing. The pink cars are covered in cherry blossoms!
Looking back the other direction toward the high arched car bridge & the Inland Sea beyond, it's still light. Little boats are patiently waiting for their owners to return.
And now we're patiently waiting for the very colorful Nishiki River trolley at the downtown crossing. The pink cars are covered in cherry blossoms!
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