As relief efforts continue in the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake, another quake hit Chile in the early morning of February 27. With a magnitude of 8.8, the quake struck with enough strength to shorten the length of the day by 1.26 microseconds because the earth’s axis of rotation was shifted by three inches. Needless to say, this earthquake resulted in much chaos. Buildings and infrastructure across the country collapsed, looting and pillaging were common, and more than one hundred aftershocks have been recorded. Several hours after the initial tremors, Chilean president Michelle Bachelet stated that the country did not need international aid; however, by the next day, it became clear that assistance was vital and imperative. The international community pledged humanitarian support and large amounts of money. While the country of Chile is wealthier and structurally sounder than Haiti, it will take many months, or even years, to fully recover from the damage.
Another earthquake of magnitude 6.3 shook Salta, Argentina Saturday afternoon, but only minimal damage was reported. So far, one person has been reported dead and two have been injured by the quake. The Geological Survey reports that the two earthquakes are separate incidents, but the one in Argentina may have been caused by aftershocks in Chile. The epicenters of both earthquakes lie on the same faultline. The Ryukyu Islands of Japan also experienced an earthquake on February 26, although no damage has been reported.
Experts predict that major cities in the Pacific Northwest, such as Vancouver, Seattle, or Portland, may be the next victims of devastating earthquakes. At any rate, relief and recovery efforts are needed in Haiti and Chile. Everyone is encouraged to start community service projects that can help these devastated countries. “To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it – who can say this is not greatness?” William Makepeace Thackeray.
-Brooke Barnett
Course-Notes Senior Editor
