Obviously I have been watching the news from Japan with great interest. There are around 500,000 people in evacuation centres and refuge camps at present and yesterday it began to snow. There are probably in excess of 10,000 people dead. Despite this, all the news seems to be centred on a nuclear reactor that so far has harmed perhaps 2 people (there are 2 maintenance workers missing).
I've spoken to a number of people in Tokyo over the past few days. It appears that the situation there is very difficult. Everyday items such as rice, toilet paper, eggs, milk and so on are difficult to obtain. Bottled water sells out as soon as it gets to the shelves. Many of the expats that I know in Tokyo have already left. Some of the Japanese that are there have left also, mainly for Osaka. The French government issues travel advice several days ago advising French nationals to leave Tokyo and yesterday the Australian government did the same.
If any of the readers are in Japan, please post a comment with your thoughts or impressions.
Thanks for the update, Shane. I'd assume things in uji are okay... any news from our friends there?
ReplyDeleteHi Shane,
ReplyDeleteThe sensationalism in the media (both here and world wide) about the nuclear 'crisis' and the consequent worry this is causing to our families and friends back home is not doing any of us that are left in Tokyo any favours.
Although admittedly a worry, various sources indicate that there is no potential for any harm from radiation leaks. I am
sure the previous couple of nights of freezing temperatures are posing a greater threat to the well being of the unfortunate people in the effected areas than any radiation leaks.
Things in Tokyo are all relatively normal. Convenience stores are now fully stocked, the first time since last Friday. Glad to report that there is no sign of any beer shortage or indeed any indication of the necessity of any beer rationing.
Hi Dylan - Uji was largely unaffected. Akino has heard from Mr Yamamoto (and his family) via her mother. He is fine and dandy and up to his usual mischief.
ReplyDeleteEven in Tokyo, it is hard to get toilet paper, milk, eggs, natto,and bottled water. Mainly because transportation system by trucks is not working enough due to lack of gasoline.
ReplyDeleteAbout nuclear crisis,
Personally, I am not satisfied with the quality and quantity of information released by the government. Mr. Kan might be killing millions of people by making wrong decision.
The government announces that the radiation level is still safe in Tokyo, however I cannot believe it.
Everyone neither.
I hope you can come to Japan in April without worry about radiation.