Hope for Japan

Some of our missionaries have begun thinking of contingency plans if radiation continues to spread from the Nuclear Plant in Fukushima. This afternoon we will be having a Skype group chat to talk about what we should do and when as things progress. The plant is around 150 miles or so from us. We just received an email from the US Ambassador of Japan (not a personal email, but to Americans here in Japan 🙂 ), indicating that they suggest those within 50 miles of Fukushima should evacuate the area. They warned only those within 30 miles the other day, indicating that the radiation is spreading and people should be concerned. It is still a ways off, but one of our missionaries pointed out that if things do turn more grave, then millions of people will be panicking and trying to leave at once, making it virtually impossible to get out of the area.

Gas stations are still empty, along with grocery stores. This means that driving places remains fairly difficult (though we luckily have nearly a full tank of gas). If we do have to leave, it may be heading west in Japan to escape the radiation. Now, the threat of earthquakes has decreased significantly, though there still is a risk of more happening. We are grateful to the Covenant office for offering funds if we do need to temporarily relocate.

We have also heard from one of our fellow missionaries that he is heading up to Sendai with relief supplies. He is working with CRASH Japan, a Christian relief agency, which allows him to have a permit to drive on the highways (which are currently restricted to emergency vehicles). These roads also have gas, as it is set aside for those helping with relief efforts. He will be bringing up water, food, and supplies to those in need. Pray that he, along with others, will be able to safely and timely deliver supplies to aid those in desperate need.