Disaster in Port-au-Prince

Shortly before 5 p.m. Tuesday, a major disaster has inflicted significant damages to the country of Haiti. The level of the earthquake is measured at 7.0 on the moment magnitude scale. For those unfamiliar with the logarithmic, each whole number represents approximately 31 times more powerful than its previous integer. For example, the Great Chilean Earthquake of 1960, the largest quake in history, measured 9.5 on similar scales. Comparisons follow: a magnitude of 8 is 31x more powerful than a magnitude of 7....9 is 31x more powerful than 8......etc.

To reengage on the aforementioned subject, however, the natural disaster occurred roughly 10 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince. Roughly one-third of the entire Haitian population has been affected, according to Red Cross estimates. The capital city, Port-au-Prince, is nearly completely destroyed. The remaining residents are attempting to provide aid and formulating rescue parties to the respective individuals in dire need. United States President Obama is preparing to make an effort the number one priority. The U.N. World Food Programme is initiating a response program that will transport 87 metric tons of high energy biscuits to provide nourishment to survivors via aircraft, as the airport appears undamaged. Overall, I believe various countries are offering their condolences and sympathy, and even additional aid to provide the country of Haiti with support.

Apparently, the latest news update is still reporting aftershocks, 18 to be specific, that reach magnitudes of roughly 5.0. I, personally, feel sorrow for the unfortunate country. Ranked 149^th on the Human Development Index, Haiti is categorized as one of the poorest countries in the world. Naturally, this will prove difficult to remedy the problem and once again rebuild the society. Various other disasters occurred similarly in 1994 and 1998, though to a lesser extent. Though I would have to do further research to be exact, it appears the country is located on very sensitive earth. For those interested, I have attached the link from CNN so you may view the various pictures of destruction. Of course, though many of us lack the opportunity to provide guidance and help, please feel free to offer your sympathy for those affected.

CNN (2010). Photos, text begins to tell of destruction in Haiti. Retrieved Jan 13, 2010 from http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/01/13/haiti.color/index.html