We saw the news this morning on the earthquake. Crazy stuff to realize that we were there about 2 months ago. We were about 17 hours north though of where the epicenter was. We have been in contact with some of our Chilean and American friends and all is well with them. In Copiapo they felt it for sure but there was no damage. In Santiago our friends there describe it as "minor" damage. Its apparently worse farther down south in Concepcion...which is a BIG city. We don't really know anyone there. We do know of one family who lives on a farm out there and they are probably there for the summer (that was the family that we went down south with during our winter break and Jason got sick...and then we stayed on our 5 star hotel with the extra money we saved...hahahaha) Anyways, we haven't heard anything from them but since they are out in the country I'd imagine that they are ok. Hopefully. We are praying for them none the less.
What a contrast to see the difference between Chile and Haiti. I believe that Haiti was a low 7 earthquake...Chile an 8.8! It just goes to show the difference in infrastructure and preparation (and money!). Jason and I experienced small little tremors the whole time we were there. We went through one that shook us pretty good but nothing like what they just experienced. Crazy. About 8 months before we arrived they had a pretty good earthquake too. The government is very, very aware of how likely earthquakes are there and prepare themselves appropriately with building standards and the such. The fact that there are a bit over 100 deaths is heart breaking and yet...you almost feel like, "Really? That's it?" Maybe it's just because it is seen in contrast to Haiti....and probably always will be even though an 8.8 is one of the largest earthquakes on record. Still we are praying for that country and the families that HAVE lost those that they love!
So, that's a little update! Thanks! :)
***Update/Edit: The death count is climbing and thus...there are probably still more to be found. I just didn't want to play down the value of each of these lost lives. Be praying.
How scary and frightening! The quake happened at a time when most people were sleeping. I hope the United States and other foreign countries send aid to the people of Chile as soon as possible. They will need it. I further hope that no tsunamis strike any other country as a result of this quake. That would be even more devastating.
ReplyDelete