We are now several days into the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. The scene on the ground remains chaotic with the added concern of radiation spreading from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. At least 6,405 people are confirmed dead, with more than 2,400 injured. More than 100,000 buildings in the region were damaged, if not destroyed, leaving about 380,000 people seeking shelter.
EA USA currently has 144 open cases involving 521 individuals. We are actively coordinating our efforts to help members seeking assistance, many of whom were moved from the affected zones to a safer location in Japan with several others evacuated from Japan via commercial airline on regularly-scheduled flights. Globally, the EA Group is actively coordinating assistance for approximately 700 customers in the region.
Following are highlights of the situation on the ground and as always, for the most current information please consult the news media.
The U.S. State Department warns U.S. citizens of the declining state of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The United Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) encourages U.S. citizens who live within 50 miles of the plant evacuate the region or seek shelter if safe evacuation is not feasible.
Officials at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed damaged fuel rods in the Fukushima nuclear power plant, some of which are releasing radioactive steam. Additionally, the cooling system is out of commission due to the earthquake, leaving crews the task of pouring water on specific reactors in an effort to cool them down.
There are many factors in the wake of the earthquake and tsunami, including weather, wind direction and speed as well as the nature of the reactor problem that directly affects the risk of radioactive contamination within this 50 mile radius.
Hospitals are overwhelmed and are facing medicine shortages.
Relief efforts are being hindered by the devastation, leaving many people without basic supplies.
There are continued aftershocks, though their frequency has decreased considerably.
Commercial flights have resumed at all major airports that were closed due to the earthquake, except Sendai Airport. However, many may change flight schedules with little notice.
Most public transit, including trains and subways are operating in Tokyo. However, many roads have been damaged in Tokyo and northern Japan.
The March 11 earthquake and tsunami continue to cause extreme difficulties for those in the area affected by the disaster. Temporary water and food supply shortages may occur in select areas of Japan due to power and transportation disruptions. Telephone services have also been disrupted in select areas; if possible, you may still be able to contact family members using text messages or social media.
There are continuing rolling power outages in the Tokyo Metropolitan area and areas of northeast Japan affected by the earthquake and tsunami. Additionally, there are reports that three-hour outages may occur in various regions, including Tokyo.
Strong aftershocks are likely to continue for weeks following an earthquake of this scale.
The American Red Cross recommends that in the event of an aftershock, you should move to open spaces away from walls, windows, buildings and other structures that may collapse and to remain alert to the danger of falling debris. If you are indoors, drop, cover and hold on. It is recommended, if possible, to seek cover under a sturdy desk or table and protect your eyes by pressing your face against your arm.
Due to the possibility of damaged gas lines, take great care if you need to use matches, lighters, candles or any open flame.
We will provide additional updates as the situation unfolds and encourage you to notify our 24/7 assistance center if there are any members who are in need of assistance.
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