Aftershocks Continue to Rock Chile; Long Road to Recovery Begins

After the devastating 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chile Saturday morning, February 27, 2010 at 06:34:14 UTC, the coastline has continued to be battered by significant aftershocks. In just under 48 hours, and as of 10:03 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, 2010, more than 129 aftershocks have continued to rock the South American country, eight of which were of 6.0 or greater magnitude. A 6.9 magnitude was one of those aftershocks striking only about an hour and a half after the quake.

While the earthquake was much more powerful then the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that caused widespread damage and resulted in an enormous death toll in Haiti, it appears that Chile has weathered this trial extremely well. Being located on the pacific rim, earthquakes are a common event in the region. Chile also has a much higher standard level of living than those in area of Haiti. These facts prepare Chileans for these disasters and prompt local building codes to prepare their structures for such events. An additional card that Chile was able to take advantage of was that the quake struck in a lesser populated area well outside of their capitol.

So while Chile may have dodged a much more significant bullet, there is still tremendous need for resources and a long road to recovery. Relatives are communicating to loved ones via social networking sites and transmitting images of the disaster. Major thoroughfares have been destroyed and will slow down aid to the more remote areas.

For those looking to help, there are several organizations that are already on the ground and can use donations to aid reconstruction.

The American Red Cross is historically known for the aid they provide in disasters and have already pledged $50,000 from their International Response Fund. They are also providing the US State Department's number at 1-888-407-4747 to help those looking for information on US Citizens in Chile.

Having already provided more than 3,500 families with homes since 1998, Habitat for Humanity will help Chileans rebuild one of the most precious resources to mankind, their home.

If you're familiar with the American Red Cross, you should also know of the Salvation Army. You can donate $10 to the Salvation Army simply by texting the word CHILE to 52000.

Another major charity providing Disaster Relief to Haiti, Shelter Box, is already on its way to South America to support those in Conception, the area most likely effected the worst by the quake.

World Vision has worked in Chile for 30 years and have more than 100 staff located there. They are preparing additional staff to head to the region. On their site, you can also become a Crisis Child Partner, if you are interested in specifically helping the children affected by this crisis.

There are sadly nefarious opportunists that try to take advantage of the giving hearts of many at times like this. While you may be encouraged to donate, please verify the authenticity of those to whom you give money. If you have the means to donate, please join me in participating in the recovery efforts by donating to your favorite charity.

Sources:
USGS, Earthquake List for South American Region
Habitat for Humanity Int'l, Disaster Response
American Red Cross, Earthquake in Chile
Shelter Box, Shelter Box News
World Vision, Earthquake in Chile