Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan

I was going to write on another topic this morning, but my thoughts were diverted by the leading news story this morning - a huge earthquake and tsunami that have hit northern Japan, with the tsunami warnings racing out across the Pacific to areas as far away as Hawaii and even the west coast of the United States. At a magnitude of 8.9, the earthquake is, according to the radio reports now playing in the background, "of historic proportions" and "the most powerful earthquake to hit Japan in more than 150 years." The effect of the quake is compounded by the lack of warning time - its epicenter was only about 230 miles from Tokyo.

Things like this tend to remind us that, no matter how much damage can be done by boneheaded politicians, religious bigots, and violent dictators, Mother Nature can put them all to shame with her raw power. To put this horrifying event into perspective, you can go here to see a summary by the US Geological Survey of the worst earthquakes in history - those which caused 50,000 or more deaths. The most destructive earthquake ever recorded took place in China in the 1500's, and killed more than 830,000 people.

Although Japan is used to frequent earthquakes, and is generally well-prepared to cope with their effects, it's still a terrifying event and there will surely be many people killed. It makes me feel bad about complaining about our snowstorms which, by comparison, are the merest of nuisances.

If you're a praying person, this would be a good time to remember the victims of this terrible disaster. If you aren't, you should still keep these folks in your thoughts.

Have a good day. It will be easier if you don't live in the danger area. More thoughts tomorrow.

Bilbo