We had a pretty strong typhoon here over the weekend. It caused the most damage in Okinawa, where 250 mph winds tossed cars around like they were toys. The majority of houses lost power on the island, and there's definitely some cleaning up to do.
When the typhoon reached Tokyo, it was still fairly strong. Wind gusts were up to 75 mph, though they tended to hang around 30-40 mph on average. I stayed inside during the day when it was still sunny to study. At night, I headed over to the movie theater to watch Snow White and the Huntsman with Tai. The movie is pretty actually; I recommend it.
Due to the wind though, the second movie wasn't showing. So we headed back, and ate udon for a while at a restaurant. The entire time we ate, the windows howled outside. The doors and windows rattled, and rain came down in droves. I waited for a break and managed to get back to my apartment just as the winds kicked up again.
By Monday, everything was clear, but there was trash everywhere. Signs and boxes had been thrown around all over the streets. Tokyo is pretty good about getting everything cleaned up. By today (Tuesday), you couldn't even notice that there was the largest typhoon that Tokyo has felt in a long time.
This morning a fairly large earthquake struck off the coast as well, registering in at a 6.2. I woke up to it actually, but it was only a 3 in Tokyo by that point. There was another smaller earthquake later in the day. Overall, Japan is having some strange weather.
Two weeks ago, we were still 80 degrees and sunny. Then it rained for two straight weeks and dropped down into the 60s. The day after the typhoon the weather is always hot and sunny, so that's good. I just wish it would last a little bit longer.
Showing posts with label earthquake. Show all posts
Showing posts with label earthquake. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Of Kobe
There was an earthquake the other day in Kyoto prefecture. It was a M3 at its epicenter, but it hit us around an M2. Basically, this means it was just enough to feel, but nothing serious. I was underground in class at the time, and things shook a bit, but it was over within a second. Since Kyoto never really gets these, it was somewhat unusual, but it was fine.
Kan's promised to step down after settling the budget for this upcoming year. He didn't even make it a year without calls for him to step down, which is rather sad.
I went the Kobe yesterday, and had a great time. It was my friend's first time there, so it was a good experience. Slowly, but surely, I'll learn to make my way around Kobe. It's actually rather simple to navigate, much easier than Kyoto. Then again, anything is easier than Kyoto. People who visit here frequently comment on how easy it seems to navigate, in comparison to Tokyo and the like. However, once they manage to get themselves lost once, they learn just how hard it is to get un-lost (yes, I'm making that a word). Kyoto is in some ways convenient. It's set up on a grid pattern, but the problem is navigating where you are on that grid. All of the houses look fairly similar due to the building laws here, and the streets that are fortunate enough to have names frequently end in something-something-temple. Since you can walk anywhere in Kyoto and run into a temple almost as often as you run into a konbini, this makes the city almost impossible to navigate. I actually discovered the other day that there's a song or rhyme that the elderly teach to the youth in order for them to learn the streets. It goes from north to south, and east to west. Learning this song months ago would have been good for me. Needless to say, Kobe is easy to navigate, and I'm really thankful that I was able to go again yesterday.
Kan's promised to step down after settling the budget for this upcoming year. He didn't even make it a year without calls for him to step down, which is rather sad.
I went the Kobe yesterday, and had a great time. It was my friend's first time there, so it was a good experience. Slowly, but surely, I'll learn to make my way around Kobe. It's actually rather simple to navigate, much easier than Kyoto. Then again, anything is easier than Kyoto. People who visit here frequently comment on how easy it seems to navigate, in comparison to Tokyo and the like. However, once they manage to get themselves lost once, they learn just how hard it is to get un-lost (yes, I'm making that a word). Kyoto is in some ways convenient. It's set up on a grid pattern, but the problem is navigating where you are on that grid. All of the houses look fairly similar due to the building laws here, and the streets that are fortunate enough to have names frequently end in something-something-temple. Since you can walk anywhere in Kyoto and run into a temple almost as often as you run into a konbini, this makes the city almost impossible to navigate. I actually discovered the other day that there's a song or rhyme that the elderly teach to the youth in order for them to learn the streets. It goes from north to south, and east to west. Learning this song months ago would have been good for me. Needless to say, Kobe is easy to navigate, and I'm really thankful that I was able to go again yesterday.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Of the Approaching Summer
Do you know what's really weird about updating this blog? Whenever I'm not about to write the blog, I have tons of ideas. Literally, I think I say, "I should blog about that" numerous times in my daily life, but when I finally sit down at this computer, do any of the ideas ever come to me? No. Lovely.
Life continues here in Japan. We've entered what could only be termed the early summer. It's around 27 (80 Fahrenheit) or so every day, and it's also raining like no tomorrow. Apparently there was a tropical storm in the Philippines within the last few days, which is part of the reason that it's so rainy in Kyoto. The other reason is just that it always rains in Kyoto. Even when it's not raining in the rest of Japan, it's raining in Kyoto. I think Kyoto is secretly the Seattle of this country.
Do you know, when I came here, I thought, "How on earth does moss grow 5 feet up on walls?" I'll be honest. I'd never seen moss at eye level before except on trees. I definitely never expected it to be on stone fences. As I came to live here though, I understood. If it rains virtually every day for thousands of years, then moss can grow wherever moss wants to grow. At this rate, it could even grow on the ceiling. So yes, it's either that Kyoto is trying to compete with Seattle, or that Kyoto has a not-so-secret desire to become a tropical rainforest, in which case it's on its way. 27 in the day, 90% humidity, and when it rains it only gets more unbearable.
Honestly, I'm beginning to wonder what will happen in the disaster-stricken parts of the country. Right now, businesses are trying not to use their air conditioners. Some have even gone so far as to require their employees to wear short-sleeve shirts or tank tops. I'm not sure how long this will continue though. It's possible that Japan might change it's working hours, start earlier in the morning, and end earlier in the day. The only issue that I have with this is that the hottest part of the Japanese day occurs around 1:00. That means that you would still have your employees virtually dying in the offices. In this case, it might be better to suggest a siesta type system (you never expected to see Spanish on here, did you?). If this is put in place though, there would still be energy problems. The trains might have to run later, and businesses would have to keep their lights on longer. Honestly, right now, there's no good solution.
Life continues here in Japan. We've entered what could only be termed the early summer. It's around 27 (80 Fahrenheit) or so every day, and it's also raining like no tomorrow. Apparently there was a tropical storm in the Philippines within the last few days, which is part of the reason that it's so rainy in Kyoto. The other reason is just that it always rains in Kyoto. Even when it's not raining in the rest of Japan, it's raining in Kyoto. I think Kyoto is secretly the Seattle of this country.
Do you know, when I came here, I thought, "How on earth does moss grow 5 feet up on walls?" I'll be honest. I'd never seen moss at eye level before except on trees. I definitely never expected it to be on stone fences. As I came to live here though, I understood. If it rains virtually every day for thousands of years, then moss can grow wherever moss wants to grow. At this rate, it could even grow on the ceiling. So yes, it's either that Kyoto is trying to compete with Seattle, or that Kyoto has a not-so-secret desire to become a tropical rainforest, in which case it's on its way. 27 in the day, 90% humidity, and when it rains it only gets more unbearable.
Honestly, I'm beginning to wonder what will happen in the disaster-stricken parts of the country. Right now, businesses are trying not to use their air conditioners. Some have even gone so far as to require their employees to wear short-sleeve shirts or tank tops. I'm not sure how long this will continue though. It's possible that Japan might change it's working hours, start earlier in the morning, and end earlier in the day. The only issue that I have with this is that the hottest part of the Japanese day occurs around 1:00. That means that you would still have your employees virtually dying in the offices. In this case, it might be better to suggest a siesta type system (you never expected to see Spanish on here, did you?). If this is put in place though, there would still be energy problems. The trains might have to run later, and businesses would have to keep their lights on longer. Honestly, right now, there's no good solution.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Of Clean Water and a Budget Package
Good news. I'm well-rested and able to properly explain it now. I need to do some research, but this is what I have so far.
Japan released about 10,000 metric tons of radioactive water from its Fukushima Daiichi Plant. The radiation levels despite being much higher than the legal limit, are still relatively fine. TEPCO believes that most of the radiation occurred from hydrogen explosions. Iodine-131, which has a half-life of 8 days, was found in the water. Cesium-134 and Cesium-137 were both found. Their levels are far lower, but they have much longer half-lives. 27,000 tons of water was used to cool down the reactor. This water unfortunately became highly toxic.
Areva SA, a French nuclear company, has offered to clean Japan's water. Since the French have roughly 70% of their power come from nuclear plants, they are considered extremely experienced in this. Areva SA has stated that they clean the water at 50 tons per hour. Tomihisa Oota, a Japanese chemist, has developed a process that is apparently fast though. Through a special mineral powder that collects radiation from the water, his method can clean 1,000 tons of water per hour. During a sample, he had managed to clean water in 10 minutes. If cleaning facilities are built, then this process even with thousands of tons of water would not take much longer, he believes.
Japan has also created a budget package to for relief efforts. It totals $48.5 billion (4 trillion yen) in all, and it was crated without issuing more Japanese government bonds. More of these will likely follow though, since as I stated before, it's been estimated that the damage is around $310 billion. The spending will go toward disaster relief, waste disposal, public works, infrastructure, loans, tax grants to local governments, and employment support. In order to finance this, they had to reinstate high tolls, tap into reserves for pension payouts, and cut in lawmakers' salaries. Considering Japan's population is rapidly aging, this has been a somewhat risky move, but Japan does not want to raise the national debt any higher (right now it's about $10 trillion US). Overall, it's a step in the right direction, but whether it will remain enough is still to be seen.
Sources:
Japan Discloses Data on Radioactive Water Release (WSJ)
Japanese Scientist Develops Powder That Can Clean Fukushima Daiichi Radioactive Water Faster than Areva (WSJ)
Japan released about 10,000 metric tons of radioactive water from its Fukushima Daiichi Plant. The radiation levels despite being much higher than the legal limit, are still relatively fine. TEPCO believes that most of the radiation occurred from hydrogen explosions. Iodine-131, which has a half-life of 8 days, was found in the water. Cesium-134 and Cesium-137 were both found. Their levels are far lower, but they have much longer half-lives. 27,000 tons of water was used to cool down the reactor. This water unfortunately became highly toxic.
Areva SA, a French nuclear company, has offered to clean Japan's water. Since the French have roughly 70% of their power come from nuclear plants, they are considered extremely experienced in this. Areva SA has stated that they clean the water at 50 tons per hour. Tomihisa Oota, a Japanese chemist, has developed a process that is apparently fast though. Through a special mineral powder that collects radiation from the water, his method can clean 1,000 tons of water per hour. During a sample, he had managed to clean water in 10 minutes. If cleaning facilities are built, then this process even with thousands of tons of water would not take much longer, he believes.
Japan has also created a budget package to for relief efforts. It totals $48.5 billion (4 trillion yen) in all, and it was crated without issuing more Japanese government bonds. More of these will likely follow though, since as I stated before, it's been estimated that the damage is around $310 billion. The spending will go toward disaster relief, waste disposal, public works, infrastructure, loans, tax grants to local governments, and employment support. In order to finance this, they had to reinstate high tolls, tap into reserves for pension payouts, and cut in lawmakers' salaries. Considering Japan's population is rapidly aging, this has been a somewhat risky move, but Japan does not want to raise the national debt any higher (right now it's about $10 trillion US). Overall, it's a step in the right direction, but whether it will remain enough is still to be seen.
Sources:
Japan Discloses Data on Radioactive Water Release (WSJ)
Japanese Scientist Develops Powder That Can Clean Fukushima Daiichi Radioactive Water Faster than Areva (WSJ)
化学者が「福島原発の汚染水を浄化できる粉末を開発」 (WSJ)
Monday, April 18, 2011
Of a Trip to Tokyo
I got back from Tokyo last night around 10 by Shinkansen. It was a wonderful trip. I got to see Tai and his family, and we got to spend some quality time together, the first in 4 months to be honest. It was great, and I can't express how happy I am that I was able to take the trip.
Things in Tokyo were actually relatively normal considering all that's happened. I actually didn't go into any supermarkets or konbini so I can't tell you the status of those. However, it seemed like the food supply was restored, especially considering we ate things like sushi and clam miso soup which I'm pretty sure was not ok before. You do notice some change in what's provided though. There's more things from the Kansai and southern areas of Japan. Produce from the Fukushima and other severely affected areas is not really seen.
Honestly, the biggest difference is the continue prevalence of the 自粛 (jishuku) mood (refer to previous posts for a definition). People are keeping power off in a city where most things run on power. Lights are off, and A/C is off as well despite the fact that it's getting warmer and therefore more humid in Japan. People are just opening windows instead. Shops are still continuing to close early. Trains are running normally though. The biggest problem is when the weather gets warmer and people are forced to use power in order to keep cool in the worst of the Tokyo summer. For example, with regard to the jishuku mood, Tai and I were at a vending machine, and the lights came on inside. We spent a couple minutes trying to turn them off because it's unnecessary power that can be better spent elsewhere. Eventually, they turned off on their own. But here in Japan, where electricity used to be taken as a common item, the difference to it today is rather startling.
I experienced my first earthquake. It was a M3. It was fascinating to watch the earth shift left and right. You're standing on it, and you know, the earth shouldn't move. And here I am watching the car bounce around on its wheels, and the fence at his grandmother's house sway, and feeling this kind of weird not-weightless parsay, but a definite feeling of unsteadiness. Earthquakes here have also become commonplace, but yet are a little more untrusted now. People are nervous that there will be another large one, so they're not sure how to respond when the little buzzer goes off on the TV or their phone warning them that an earthquake is approaching. If you know you're safe, you can enjoy it. You can watch the earth move and just be amazed at what's happening beneath your feet. But if you don't know if you'll be safe, they could easily be terrifying. For my brief time experiencing one, it was a positive experience, but for those that endured the big quake, I can't even begin to imagine how they must have felt. I truly wish them the best.
Tai and I spent our time going to the river and playing some catch with the football, which was more of Tai teaching how to throw and catch and me failing miserably, but it was still fun. I'm pretty sure I can get throwing down, catching with take some more time.
We also watched some movies, which were fantastic. We went to Rikkyo University's baseball game as well, and it was a blast. Japanese baseball games are tons of fun. People shout things like "NAME かっこいい！ (NAME, you're cool/hot!)" to cheer on their players while catcalling the other team with phrases like "可笑しい！ (You're strange/weird/funny!)" There's also lots of songs, and just general fun for the team and fans. I have a feeling baseball was like in this in the past, but somewhere it lost that spirit in the States. It really was fun though, and I recommend anyone to go to a game here in Japan if they get the chance cause they'll love it.
Overall, it was a wonderful trip to Tokyo.
Michelle
Things in Tokyo were actually relatively normal considering all that's happened. I actually didn't go into any supermarkets or konbini so I can't tell you the status of those. However, it seemed like the food supply was restored, especially considering we ate things like sushi and clam miso soup which I'm pretty sure was not ok before. You do notice some change in what's provided though. There's more things from the Kansai and southern areas of Japan. Produce from the Fukushima and other severely affected areas is not really seen.
Honestly, the biggest difference is the continue prevalence of the 自粛 (jishuku) mood (refer to previous posts for a definition). People are keeping power off in a city where most things run on power. Lights are off, and A/C is off as well despite the fact that it's getting warmer and therefore more humid in Japan. People are just opening windows instead. Shops are still continuing to close early. Trains are running normally though. The biggest problem is when the weather gets warmer and people are forced to use power in order to keep cool in the worst of the Tokyo summer. For example, with regard to the jishuku mood, Tai and I were at a vending machine, and the lights came on inside. We spent a couple minutes trying to turn them off because it's unnecessary power that can be better spent elsewhere. Eventually, they turned off on their own. But here in Japan, where electricity used to be taken as a common item, the difference to it today is rather startling.
I experienced my first earthquake. It was a M3. It was fascinating to watch the earth shift left and right. You're standing on it, and you know, the earth shouldn't move. And here I am watching the car bounce around on its wheels, and the fence at his grandmother's house sway, and feeling this kind of weird not-weightless parsay, but a definite feeling of unsteadiness. Earthquakes here have also become commonplace, but yet are a little more untrusted now. People are nervous that there will be another large one, so they're not sure how to respond when the little buzzer goes off on the TV or their phone warning them that an earthquake is approaching. If you know you're safe, you can enjoy it. You can watch the earth move and just be amazed at what's happening beneath your feet. But if you don't know if you'll be safe, they could easily be terrifying. For my brief time experiencing one, it was a positive experience, but for those that endured the big quake, I can't even begin to imagine how they must have felt. I truly wish them the best.
Tai and I spent our time going to the river and playing some catch with the football, which was more of Tai teaching how to throw and catch and me failing miserably, but it was still fun. I'm pretty sure I can get throwing down, catching with take some more time.
We also watched some movies, which were fantastic. We went to Rikkyo University's baseball game as well, and it was a blast. Japanese baseball games are tons of fun. People shout things like "NAME かっこいい！ (NAME, you're cool/hot!)" to cheer on their players while catcalling the other team with phrases like "可笑しい！ (You're strange/weird/funny!)" There's also lots of songs, and just general fun for the team and fans. I have a feeling baseball was like in this in the past, but somewhere it lost that spirit in the States. It really was fun though, and I recommend anyone to go to a game here in Japan if they get the chance cause they'll love it.
Overall, it was a wonderful trip to Tokyo.
Michelle
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Of Sakura Season
First off, some quick news. The nuclear reactor was updated to the same status as Chernobyl the other day. Apparently it qualifies as a 7 now because of a long, sustained release of radiation with significant damage. But honestly, nothing has really changed. It was a level 5 before. But really, nothing has changed within the past couple days, so don't worry.
Secondly, I have some pictures to share with you all of the sakura. This blog is about more than just earthquakes and tsunamis and nuclear reactors after all. This year the sakura have had mixed reviews. In some ways, people are so appreciative. They only last about a week or two and then they're gone. It's this fleeting beauty amongst everything else, so it's appreciated all the more, especially in light of recent events. On the other hand though, due to the continued 自粛 (jishuku) mood, people still feel guilty about appreciating anything.
Needless to say though, people are still trying to enjoy the season though. The weather is getting warmer, and the sakura (cherry blossoms) mark the start of spring. So, in order for everyone to understand how this works, I'll explain.
The sakura begin to bloom when the weather just starts getting warmer. For all purposes, it's still fairly cool in the morning and at night. But people will go alone or as couples, school groups, company groups, families, etc. to enjoy the sakura together in parks. The cherry blossoms since they only bloom for a short time should be enjoyed to the fullest, so people make sure to spend a decent amount of time outside to properly appreciate them.
Of course, no celebration is complete without alcohol, especially here in Japan. So, we all went to 花見 (hanami), or flower-viewing to go appreciate them. You can do this just in a park, or you can go to a shrine such as this one. We were at 平野神社 (Hirano Jinjya) for this picture. There were chairs and tables, benches, and these large platforms to enjoy the cherry blossoms. I drank 甘酒 (amazake), sweet sake, while my friends drank everything from Chu-Hi's to beer to hot sake.
Of course, sakura during the day are also beautiful. This is Ritsumeikan University's Kinugasa Campus (立命館大学衣笠キャンパス) in full bloom. We've had a pretty strong wind recently, so the petals have been billowing around. There's actually a world for the falling petals, it's called 花吹雪 (hana-fubuki), which means "blowing flowers" or "falling flowers." The petals are getting in everything too. You walk into class and you, your books, your hair, and your food are covered in them. It's kind of cool, and definitely beautiful, but it's amazing to see them falling.
I have to get back to studying. I have a kanji test before I leave for Tokyo, so I need to actually make sure I can write them. Take care everyone!
Michelle
Monday, April 11, 2011
Of an "Aftershock"
Japan has been experiencing hundreds of aftershocks since the big quake. Many of them are strong, rivaling what we could call simply another earthquake. Today's hit near Iwaki city which is in Fukushima prefecture, registering at a 7.1. For those up in Touhoku, it's impossible to imagine what they could be going through. Power is being restored, but these quakes keep knocking it out. Some people, sick of being in the evacuation centers, are trying to return to their homes. When they do so though, they're finding even simple life is difficult. Without electricity and running water, they can't really cook their food or a number of other things. I read an article the other day which was talking about a woman who is living in her house, and she talks about how much things have changed. She also mentioned how little luxuries like clean underwear are provided at the evacuation centers, but not necessarily in her home anymore since she's unable to do laundry. People are worrying about health issues.
I watched the news today when the aftershock hit, and I have to say it looked a bit end-of-the-world-ish. The sky was dark, even though it was still fairly early in the evening. It looked like the camera honestly was being shaken by someone. It's hard to imagine the entire ground moving while buildings sway on top. It was lightning and promptly began pouring. I'm honestly wondering how much these plates have moved. A tsunami warning was given, but it's only a meter, so it should be lifted soon if it hasn't been already. I admit, I haven't checked since I live on a plateau between mountains and a 1 meter really shouldn't do that much damage.
I think some schools were planning to resume school today in Miyagi prefecture, but I'm not sure if they did or not.
The evacuation zone was extended to 30 km. No worries, it's still far away, and I think that a significant number of people had already evacuated.
The nuclear reactors were not hurt in the quake. They remain in their current state.
Classes were good today. I had Comprehensive as well as Listening & Speaking. We just talked about hanami, earthquakes, and the nuclear situation. It was more interesting than learning about what we were supposed to learning about. And since my class was only 4 today, it was easily manipulated.
In good news, I'm going to Tokyo this Friday! I'll get to see Tai and his family, and just overall have a good time. I bought my Shinkansen ticket the other day. I'm so excited.
Source:
Japan expands nuclear evacuation zone as new quake hits (Reuters)
I watched the news today when the aftershock hit, and I have to say it looked a bit end-of-the-world-ish. The sky was dark, even though it was still fairly early in the evening. It looked like the camera honestly was being shaken by someone. It's hard to imagine the entire ground moving while buildings sway on top. It was lightning and promptly began pouring. I'm honestly wondering how much these plates have moved. A tsunami warning was given, but it's only a meter, so it should be lifted soon if it hasn't been already. I admit, I haven't checked since I live on a plateau between mountains and a 1 meter really shouldn't do that much damage.
I think some schools were planning to resume school today in Miyagi prefecture, but I'm not sure if they did or not.
The evacuation zone was extended to 30 km. No worries, it's still far away, and I think that a significant number of people had already evacuated.
The nuclear reactors were not hurt in the quake. They remain in their current state.
Classes were good today. I had Comprehensive as well as Listening & Speaking. We just talked about hanami, earthquakes, and the nuclear situation. It was more interesting than learning about what we were supposed to learning about. And since my class was only 4 today, it was easily manipulated.
In good news, I'm going to Tokyo this Friday! I'll get to see Tai and his family, and just overall have a good time. I bought my Shinkansen ticket the other day. I'm so excited.
Source:
Japan expands nuclear evacuation zone as new quake hits (Reuters)
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Of Sushi
Another bright and sunny day here in Kyoto. Spring has finally arrived, and it's beautiful. With that in mind, classes started the other day. Things are going well so far. I'm in B class. They go from F to A, A being the highest before you're put into seiki level, which is when you can take classes in Japanese with Japanese students. As is, I can take classes in English with them, but not their normal Japanese classes. Not gonna' lie, understanding is fine, so I may sneak into a couple this semester anyway if I get the chance. As is, right now I'm taking a Comprehensive Japanese class, a Listening & Speaking class, a Writing course, as well as International Organizations (which focuses on NGOs, etc.), Political Economies of East Asia (comparing Japan, China, Korea), possibly a Women's Studies course which is focused on women in war (I know. Not my specialty, but interesting), and last but not least, hopefully a International Management course (which looks at the logistics and marketing strategies of an international corporation). Overall, a pretty decent schedule if I do say so myself.
To answer a quick question that was posted in comments, classes will continue as normal. Kansai is in fact so fine that nothing will change whatsoever with regard to classes. We may take in some more students though who are refugees. Therefore, no worries with class schedules changing unless something major strikes Kansai. The rest of Japan is obviously a bit more affected. According to Tai, Rikkyo University is only taking in two international students this semester because the rest cancelled due to fears of going to Tokyo. I'd like to say that I'm personally proud of those students and especially one of them since he is also from Miami.
What people aren't understanding abroad is that Japan is quite a big country. The problem is that it's normally compared to California. People therefore get a little nervous because California is only 1 state in a country of 50 of them. However, Japan is also relatively the same size as Italy. Because Italy is a country and not a state (by the American English definition of course), people suddenly become much calmer. Therefore, I'd like to propose comparing Japan to Italy in size for the rest of time.
Due to the belief that Japan is a small country, people are refusing to buy fish from Japan. I understand as much as the next person that when you hear about radioactive materials being dumped into the ocean, the last thing you want to do is go eat fish. Most of Japan's fishing is done farther away from the coast though. This is due to past overfishing problems. But Michelle, you might say, fish swim. They can swim close to the coast. And yes, they can. I don't deny it. But if you're concerned about that, then don't eat fish that live close to shore. Those that live out in deeper waters should of course be checked, but if they make it into your markets, they are safe. Japan's economy depends on exports. They will be responsible in this.
In order to prevent more radiation from escaping to the ocean though, TEPCO has installed steel barriers and silt fences. Although I'm not sure about the effectiveness of this, we can only trust them for now.
I love me a good plate of sushi and honestly, if I can eat it here, then you can eat it thousands of miles away. Furthermore, most sushi restaurants abroad are actually switching to fish from other places. Even Japan is not necessarily making sushi from locally caught fish at times. If you're eating salmon sushi for example, it much more likely that it will be from Norway, and your tuna will likely be from Spain. The term sushi (寿司) refers to fish that is offered with vinegared rice. It is a preparation style, and in no way requires the fish to be harvested from Japanese waters. The only requirement of that fish is that it must be of an exceptionally high quality to serve raw. If it is not, you could end up making your customers sick.
So, this begs the question, which is sushi? In the West, it often refers to what is called makizushi (巻寿司) here in Japan. This is the rolled sushi. It is rice, fish, and sometimes vegetables wrapped with rice in a piece of nori (海苔) or seaweed. A second of type of sushi is nigirizushi (握り寿司). This is hand-formed sushi which is a bit of rice, some wasabi, and fish or something on top. There is also oshizushi (押し寿司), which is literally "pressed sushi." This is specialty in Osaka, where a block-type sushi is formed. There is also inarizushi (稲荷寿司), which is a wrapper made of fried tofu filled with sushi rice. It was believed to be a favorite of the god Inari. I actually find this to be quite sweet, and normally reserve it as a dessert-type sushi for this reason. Second to last, we have chirashizushi (ちらし寿司), which is literally a "scattered sushi." This is when the fish is put on top of rice in a bowl. Lastly, there is narezushi (熟れ寿司), which I actually haven't had yet, but it's been fermented. Considering that Kyoto is known for it's fermented foods, I'll have to check it out.
So, now that we got cleared up. Please don't put your local sushi restaurant out of business. Go support them. It's delicious, and you should at enjoy it when you know its safe.
Oh, and before I go, I'd just like to state that I want a subscription to NIKKEI Shinbun so bad. Because I currently don't have a subscription, their newest articles right now are locked. I have to figure out the cost of it, but I think it'd be nice.
Sources:
Friday, April 8, 2011
Of Jishuku
Well-rested and English working properly again, I feel as if I can write a blog post to everyone now. In a brief update about last night's 7.4 quake, I'd like to note that no significant damage occurred. Only 2 people are known to have died, and a few injured. The Fukushima Daiichi Plant is as stable as it was before the earthquake. Workers were briefly evacuated due to tsunami concerns, but that tsunami warning was lifted, so they went back to fixing the reactor. And before you comment on hearing that there was a tsunami, please understand that it was a meter high. That's nothing. It's like a wave. So, continuing on with things that not overblown in the US news. After doing some silicone gel work, it seems like the leak was slowed and possibly stopped the other day. Not sure on this though because I admit I've been a tad busy as of late.
The lack of food in the Touhoku region is still continuing to hurt the residents there. It's a shame that they've survived through all this only to have to face possible starvation. The government and other groups are distributing food of course, but having the food and having the manpower to distribute the food are different. Japan can get through this, but it's going to take an army of volunteers to do it.
The yen is slowly falling. In a way, this is good. It means that Japanese products will become cheaper for consumers abroad, but at the same time, this is a problem because it's somewhat indicative of a future recession.
Other countries have banned or are checking Japanese products carefully. Although it is understandable, the bans are a shame. The last thing Japan needs right now is for people not to buy its exports. The answer is rather simple in this case. Don't buy things from the area directly near the plant. Kansai and further south are fine. That means things like Kobe beef are safe.
Tourists to Japan are still few. So the Japanese economy is suffering in this way as well.
Actually, the point of this post is to talk about something called jishuku (自粛), or self-restraint. Something amazing has happened to Japan since the quake. In a country which quite frankly prefers expensive goods over cheap ones and brand names over non-brand names, the practice of jishuku was rarer earlier this year. For example, let's look at a fairly common brand name in the States, which is Coach. Coach sells purses, bags, wallets, etc. It's a fine leather maker shop, and it's pretty well-respected in my opinion. In the US, Coach is also considered ridiculously expensive, and for good reason. If you sold bags at the same price in Japan as what you sell in them in the US though, people would not buy them because they would be too cheap for a brand name. That means brand name goods are tripled normally in cost. So if a bag costs $100 in the US, it will cost $300 in Japan. Levi jeans are another good example. I think you can buy them for $20 in the States. The cheapest that I've found them in Japan is $150, and that's the absolute cheapest. I've seen them go for as high as $300. So, what does this have to do with jishuku?
People prided themselves in the past on having luxury goods. It's the same the world round I suppose, but it was definitely theme here in Japan. However, since the earthquake, the practice of jishuku has come back in full force. Watching the TV, hearing the news, and looking at refugees who continue to stream into safer areas, the majority of people have decided to engage in the practice of jishuku. They just don't feel as if they deserve to enjoy a luxury product at the moment when some people don't even have houses, let alone food. In some ways, this has really helped Japan. Japan was supposed to suffer from planned rolling blackouts through April, but because people were conserving so much power, that idea was able to be cancelled. In the summer when energy use increases, we'll see if they're reinstated, but for now, this is definitely a positive. However, the cabinet ministers are urging people not to engage in jishuku when it comes to commodities. Japan needs money to rebuild and it can't do that when people aren't spending money. This of course is a double-edged sword though. If you tell people not to restrain themselves, will they start using goods that they should conserve, like food, water, electricity, gas, etc. If that's true, then it's dangerous to say to stop the feeling of self-restraint. Personally though, I'm for the idea. The economy needs to be boosted, and if you can emphasize still conserving on necessary goods while not necessarily conserving on luxury goods, maybe it would help things out.
Sources:
China concerned at Japan's prolonged nuclear crisis (Reuters)
「自粛ムードやめよう」閣僚から発言相次ぐ (朝日新聞)
The lack of food in the Touhoku region is still continuing to hurt the residents there. It's a shame that they've survived through all this only to have to face possible starvation. The government and other groups are distributing food of course, but having the food and having the manpower to distribute the food are different. Japan can get through this, but it's going to take an army of volunteers to do it.
The yen is slowly falling. In a way, this is good. It means that Japanese products will become cheaper for consumers abroad, but at the same time, this is a problem because it's somewhat indicative of a future recession.
Other countries have banned or are checking Japanese products carefully. Although it is understandable, the bans are a shame. The last thing Japan needs right now is for people not to buy its exports. The answer is rather simple in this case. Don't buy things from the area directly near the plant. Kansai and further south are fine. That means things like Kobe beef are safe.
Tourists to Japan are still few. So the Japanese economy is suffering in this way as well.
Actually, the point of this post is to talk about something called jishuku (自粛), or self-restraint. Something amazing has happened to Japan since the quake. In a country which quite frankly prefers expensive goods over cheap ones and brand names over non-brand names, the practice of jishuku was rarer earlier this year. For example, let's look at a fairly common brand name in the States, which is Coach. Coach sells purses, bags, wallets, etc. It's a fine leather maker shop, and it's pretty well-respected in my opinion. In the US, Coach is also considered ridiculously expensive, and for good reason. If you sold bags at the same price in Japan as what you sell in them in the US though, people would not buy them because they would be too cheap for a brand name. That means brand name goods are tripled normally in cost. So if a bag costs $100 in the US, it will cost $300 in Japan. Levi jeans are another good example. I think you can buy them for $20 in the States. The cheapest that I've found them in Japan is $150, and that's the absolute cheapest. I've seen them go for as high as $300. So, what does this have to do with jishuku?
People prided themselves in the past on having luxury goods. It's the same the world round I suppose, but it was definitely theme here in Japan. However, since the earthquake, the practice of jishuku has come back in full force. Watching the TV, hearing the news, and looking at refugees who continue to stream into safer areas, the majority of people have decided to engage in the practice of jishuku. They just don't feel as if they deserve to enjoy a luxury product at the moment when some people don't even have houses, let alone food. In some ways, this has really helped Japan. Japan was supposed to suffer from planned rolling blackouts through April, but because people were conserving so much power, that idea was able to be cancelled. In the summer when energy use increases, we'll see if they're reinstated, but for now, this is definitely a positive. However, the cabinet ministers are urging people not to engage in jishuku when it comes to commodities. Japan needs money to rebuild and it can't do that when people aren't spending money. This of course is a double-edged sword though. If you tell people not to restrain themselves, will they start using goods that they should conserve, like food, water, electricity, gas, etc. If that's true, then it's dangerous to say to stop the feeling of self-restraint. Personally though, I'm for the idea. The economy needs to be boosted, and if you can emphasize still conserving on necessary goods while not necessarily conserving on luxury goods, maybe it would help things out.
Sources:
China concerned at Japan's prolonged nuclear crisis (Reuters)
「自粛ムードやめよう」閣僚から発言相次ぐ (朝日新聞)
Another Earthquake
I don't want to write about these anymore. They're depressing. But I'll uphold my duty and write about it because otherwise who knows what will appear overseas. Plus, this is a sort of catalogue of my time in Japan, so I should at least catalogue correctly I suppose. Another earthquake just hit Japan. The Japanese news says that it was a 6, about 74 miles from Fukushima. Reuters says it was a 7.4 at the epicenter. There's a tsunami warning, but it looks like it's only around .5 m in the Tokyo and Touhoku areas. Near the reactor though it's closer to 2 m. No worries. Obviously, I still remain nothing of an expert on the topic of earthquakes and tsunami prevention, but the Fukushima Daiichi Plant is on a hill. So things should be ok. I was skyping Tai when it hit. The camera was shaking pretty bad in Tokyo where it registered at a 3, but otherwise it seems like things are ok. The only worry is that it really was a long earthquake. Like it seemed like it went on for a couple minutes. I don't know what's the earthquakes here recently, but the earth should never shake for a couple minutes, get stronger, and then weaken in strength. It's just wild.
Don't be worried though. To be honest, we expected this. The chance of us having another M7 earthquake this month was about 50% or so.
Is there any other news? I'm not sure. It's almost 1 am and I'm exhausted.
Japan is trying to get back on its feet, but these earthquakes are making it more difficult. I urge everyone to continue to donate in order to help those affected.
Still felt nothing in Kyoto. Everything continues to be safe here. Though I almost wish that it would hit here rather than continuing to hit those who are already affected and struggling to return to normal.
Miami apparently cancelled their trip to Japan. They do something called PacRim every year where they go to China, Korea, Japan, but they're not coming to Japan this summer. It's normally only a week that they spend here but it's a shame. In order to fully appreciate the business world, especially in this region, one needs to understand how Japan influences and is influenced by the surrounding countries. They still continue to support us who are studying abroad. No problems there. I understand they don't want to necessarily assure the safety of a large group in an area which has had so many natural disasters recently, but it's a shame. Japan is being hurt by the lack of tourists. Normally, Kyoto would be teeming with tourists who want to see the cherry blossoms. But there are significantly less than normal. Sure it makes the commutes easier, but it's depressing in a sort of way. Japan needs the tourism in order to boost its economy. But taking care of tourists right night would also be a mess. So who knows what the right decision is.
Is my English bad right now? I feel like it is. My grandpa just skyped me and I swear I almost spoke to him in Japanese...That's amazing honestly because my Japanese speaking continues to be at the top of the lousy scale.
Had classes today. It was nice to start class again, but more on that in another post. I'm going to class again tomorrow. Luckily they don't start till later (round 4). Sure the current earthquake will be the topic of conversation there. If you have questions, comment in the posts. I'll do my best to answer them and prevent more unfounded panic. More soon.
Michelle
Don't be worried though. To be honest, we expected this. The chance of us having another M7 earthquake this month was about 50% or so.
Is there any other news? I'm not sure. It's almost 1 am and I'm exhausted.
Japan is trying to get back on its feet, but these earthquakes are making it more difficult. I urge everyone to continue to donate in order to help those affected.
Still felt nothing in Kyoto. Everything continues to be safe here. Though I almost wish that it would hit here rather than continuing to hit those who are already affected and struggling to return to normal.
Miami apparently cancelled their trip to Japan. They do something called PacRim every year where they go to China, Korea, Japan, but they're not coming to Japan this summer. It's normally only a week that they spend here but it's a shame. In order to fully appreciate the business world, especially in this region, one needs to understand how Japan influences and is influenced by the surrounding countries. They still continue to support us who are studying abroad. No problems there. I understand they don't want to necessarily assure the safety of a large group in an area which has had so many natural disasters recently, but it's a shame. Japan is being hurt by the lack of tourists. Normally, Kyoto would be teeming with tourists who want to see the cherry blossoms. But there are significantly less than normal. Sure it makes the commutes easier, but it's depressing in a sort of way. Japan needs the tourism in order to boost its economy. But taking care of tourists right night would also be a mess. So who knows what the right decision is.
Is my English bad right now? I feel like it is. My grandpa just skyped me and I swear I almost spoke to him in Japanese...That's amazing honestly because my Japanese speaking continues to be at the top of the lousy scale.
Had classes today. It was nice to start class again, but more on that in another post. I'm going to class again tomorrow. Luckily they don't start till later (round 4). Sure the current earthquake will be the topic of conversation there. If you have questions, comment in the posts. I'll do my best to answer them and prevent more unfounded panic. More soon.
Michelle
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Of a Hero
Sorry. I wanted to add one more article today for everyone to look at. This one is sad but definitely worth a read. It's about a firefighter in one of the Japanese towns which was hit by the tsunami.
Fire bridge members in tsunami-ravaged town stood ground until the end
東日本大震災：鳴らし続けた半鐘•••消防団11人死亡•不明
Fire bridge members in tsunami-ravaged town stood ground until the end
東日本大震災：鳴らし続けた半鐘•••消防団11人死亡•不明
Of a Return to Normalcy?
Not quite so. Those here in Japan right now are trying their hardest to return to normal life. Companies are attempting to stay open, people are going to work, and students are preparing to start school again, but things aren't quite normal. In fact, they definitely aren't normal. Companies are closing around 6, even here in Kansai where the power outages have not been put in place. Workers are still staying home sometimes, finding it difficult to get to work, or their companies are asking them to do work from home. Students, despite getting ready for school, still have the feeling in the back of their minds that their classes might be delayed. And some even know that their classes are delayed. Those of us in Kansai aren't really sure how to react. We watch our neighbors up in Kantou and Touhoku suffer power outages, etc. We hear of food shortages, possible radiation, but yet we're - at least directly - unaffected. The collections for the earthquake and tsunami continue, but we all wish we could do a bit more.
Possibly the first US death was identified the other day. It was a young woman, serving as a JET here in Japan. She had stayed at school despite people telling her to leave. Her reason? She felt that she had to make sure her students all made it home safely. After the last one left with their parents, she started to bike home. Around 10 or 15 minutes later, the tsunami hit.
To those that fled Japan or fled to safe-havens, they are finding it difficult to return to work. Their coworkers are ostracizing them for abandoning their community when they were needed the most. It's a shame. On one hand, you completely understand their flight. They wanted to ensure their safety and reassure their families and friends as well. On the other hand, those people that fled would have been extremely useful in helping to rescue survivors, hand out food and supplies, or just generally help the community with whatever it needed.
Those in Tokyo have been advised not to give their infants (less than a year old) tap water for fear of radioactive iodine. That requirement does not hold for anyone older.
Here in Kyoto, classes at Rits will start up in just 13 days. The placement test for Japanese level is in 8. I'm studying for the JLPT, hoping that will also count as studying for this placement test. Those around me are also job hunting. The job hunting process has been delayed as well, which is rather telling of the effect of this disaster. I'm actually considering buying some job hunting books. When you apply to a company here, like many in the States, you take a test that is extremely similar to the SAT or ACT. These tests are basically full of math that you have not used in years, language skills, problem and puzzle solving. Since I'm planning to come back here to work, I'll likely have to take these. I looked at some online, and they are helpful, but I'll be honest, I haven't done some of these things since high school, and even middle school if you consider word analogies. Anyway, the point of this is that the books are not only helpful for preparing for those tests, but they also help me to learn and use words that I might not use normally.
I've been keeping up with the U.S. news recently and there seems to be this fear that the radiation from Japan will reach the U.S.' West Coast. I admit, I'm a little upset by the whole matter. There have been so many people who have died from this quake. The estimates for the initial cost of the quake alone to infrastructure is in the hundred billions. I believe I saw 300 bil on the WSJ yesterday? There are even people who survived the quake only to die in the shelters from the cold and starvation. I know of course that this is not the majority of the population, and that this also extends to people out in Europe, parts of Asia, etc. but all some of these people can think about is how they might possibly be exposed to a tiny amount of radiation. With everything that's going on here, it's frankly just upsetting to see that it's come to this. To all those news sources that are supplying the nonsense, or the chain letters fueling the panic, I'd just like to point out that if you don't have anything constructive to say, then perhaps you shouldn't say anything at all?
So moving back to the original topic of this post. When will the return to normalcy occur? Weeks? According to news sources, it looks like most of the important work of dealing with the nuclear reactor will take another couple weeks. Months? It will certainly take that long to continue to build houses. Years? For the Japanese economy and for those who have lost everything, it will definitely take years. Just like the earthquake that occurred in Kobe in 1995, this earthquake will haunt people's memories. So, therefore, the complete return to normalcy? Perhaps never. People will remember what happened to their family, friends, and complete strangers as they made frantic phone calls while watching their tvs or listening to their radios.
But Japan survived, and even thrived after the atomic bombs. It rebuilt Kobe after the earthquake. The Japanese have proven they can overcome seemingly impossible hardships in the past, and so, with time, they too can overcome this one. It certainly won't be easy, but by no means is it impossible. This earthquake will live on as a horrible tragedy, but it will also be learned from and used to develop new methods to protect people in the future.
Possibly the first US death was identified the other day. It was a young woman, serving as a JET here in Japan. She had stayed at school despite people telling her to leave. Her reason? She felt that she had to make sure her students all made it home safely. After the last one left with their parents, she started to bike home. Around 10 or 15 minutes later, the tsunami hit.
To those that fled Japan or fled to safe-havens, they are finding it difficult to return to work. Their coworkers are ostracizing them for abandoning their community when they were needed the most. It's a shame. On one hand, you completely understand their flight. They wanted to ensure their safety and reassure their families and friends as well. On the other hand, those people that fled would have been extremely useful in helping to rescue survivors, hand out food and supplies, or just generally help the community with whatever it needed.
Those in Tokyo have been advised not to give their infants (less than a year old) tap water for fear of radioactive iodine. That requirement does not hold for anyone older.
Here in Kyoto, classes at Rits will start up in just 13 days. The placement test for Japanese level is in 8. I'm studying for the JLPT, hoping that will also count as studying for this placement test. Those around me are also job hunting. The job hunting process has been delayed as well, which is rather telling of the effect of this disaster. I'm actually considering buying some job hunting books. When you apply to a company here, like many in the States, you take a test that is extremely similar to the SAT or ACT. These tests are basically full of math that you have not used in years, language skills, problem and puzzle solving. Since I'm planning to come back here to work, I'll likely have to take these. I looked at some online, and they are helpful, but I'll be honest, I haven't done some of these things since high school, and even middle school if you consider word analogies. Anyway, the point of this is that the books are not only helpful for preparing for those tests, but they also help me to learn and use words that I might not use normally.
I've been keeping up with the U.S. news recently and there seems to be this fear that the radiation from Japan will reach the U.S.' West Coast. I admit, I'm a little upset by the whole matter. There have been so many people who have died from this quake. The estimates for the initial cost of the quake alone to infrastructure is in the hundred billions. I believe I saw 300 bil on the WSJ yesterday? There are even people who survived the quake only to die in the shelters from the cold and starvation. I know of course that this is not the majority of the population, and that this also extends to people out in Europe, parts of Asia, etc. but all some of these people can think about is how they might possibly be exposed to a tiny amount of radiation. With everything that's going on here, it's frankly just upsetting to see that it's come to this. To all those news sources that are supplying the nonsense, or the chain letters fueling the panic, I'd just like to point out that if you don't have anything constructive to say, then perhaps you shouldn't say anything at all?
So moving back to the original topic of this post. When will the return to normalcy occur? Weeks? According to news sources, it looks like most of the important work of dealing with the nuclear reactor will take another couple weeks. Months? It will certainly take that long to continue to build houses. Years? For the Japanese economy and for those who have lost everything, it will definitely take years. Just like the earthquake that occurred in Kobe in 1995, this earthquake will haunt people's memories. So, therefore, the complete return to normalcy? Perhaps never. People will remember what happened to their family, friends, and complete strangers as they made frantic phone calls while watching their tvs or listening to their radios.
But Japan survived, and even thrived after the atomic bombs. It rebuilt Kobe after the earthquake. The Japanese have proven they can overcome seemingly impossible hardships in the past, and so, with time, they too can overcome this one. It certainly won't be easy, but by no means is it impossible. This earthquake will live on as a horrible tragedy, but it will also be learned from and used to develop new methods to protect people in the future.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Of News
So I decided it's time to change the blog titles, or people will never be able to navigate anything later.
I woke up this morning and for the first time since the quake hit, Japan was not on the front page of every English paper. This means either that Japan has ceased to provide interesting news to the rest of the world or bigger news has come along. Today, it was entirely focused on Libya again. I actually had to go to Japanese newspapers to learn anything. And it looks like things are still improving. The recovery process is slow, but starting soon, houses will be built for those displaced by the quake and tsunami.
In bad news, trace amounts of radiation were found in some spinach and milk from the Fukushima region. In the good news, the radiation that was found is not harmful to people. To give people an idea of this, you would receive far more radiation on the plane flight overseas than you would in what is currently being detected. Obviously, caution continues though.
I found something that should never be shared in polite conversation the other day, but something that I think is still somewhat cute. This is how Japan is explaining the nuclear crisis to its children. Nuclear Boy
If you didn't appreciate that, go to the Prayforjapan.jp link on the right. It will make you cry instead.
Today CNET featured a completely absurd article just for the record. Which was, "Where are the Robots in Japan's Nuclear Crisis?" I'm not even joking. It was the most bogus article I've ever read. It basically amounted to "Japan is a high-tech society. We've seen that they have robots in the past. They should use robots to fix the nuclear reactors." No, CNET, no. Not you too. Don't make up things just because you have stereotypes of another country. It's not accurate, and it's definitely not news.
I sent off another friend last night with some karaoke. To Laura, I'll miss you dearly. You better come back to Japan, and if not, I'll see you in the future either in Japan, the States, or Ireland!
My friends made fun of me of course because we took a cab home, and I made friends with the taxi driver. I can't do the whole sit quietly in the cab thing. It's awkward. You're like a foot apart. You should make conversation. Imagine, all he does is sit in his cab all day and everyone else ignores him. Do your duty, blame it on being foreign if you have to, but at least cheer up his day.
Michelle
I woke up this morning and for the first time since the quake hit, Japan was not on the front page of every English paper. This means either that Japan has ceased to provide interesting news to the rest of the world or bigger news has come along. Today, it was entirely focused on Libya again. I actually had to go to Japanese newspapers to learn anything. And it looks like things are still improving. The recovery process is slow, but starting soon, houses will be built for those displaced by the quake and tsunami.
In bad news, trace amounts of radiation were found in some spinach and milk from the Fukushima region. In the good news, the radiation that was found is not harmful to people. To give people an idea of this, you would receive far more radiation on the plane flight overseas than you would in what is currently being detected. Obviously, caution continues though.
I found something that should never be shared in polite conversation the other day, but something that I think is still somewhat cute. This is how Japan is explaining the nuclear crisis to its children. Nuclear Boy
If you didn't appreciate that, go to the Prayforjapan.jp link on the right. It will make you cry instead.
Today CNET featured a completely absurd article just for the record. Which was, "Where are the Robots in Japan's Nuclear Crisis?" I'm not even joking. It was the most bogus article I've ever read. It basically amounted to "Japan is a high-tech society. We've seen that they have robots in the past. They should use robots to fix the nuclear reactors." No, CNET, no. Not you too. Don't make up things just because you have stereotypes of another country. It's not accurate, and it's definitely not news.
I sent off another friend last night with some karaoke. To Laura, I'll miss you dearly. You better come back to Japan, and if not, I'll see you in the future either in Japan, the States, or Ireland!
My friends made fun of me of course because we took a cab home, and I made friends with the taxi driver. I can't do the whole sit quietly in the cab thing. It's awkward. You're like a foot apart. You should make conversation. Imagine, all he does is sit in his cab all day and everyone else ignores him. Do your duty, blame it on being foreign if you have to, but at least cheer up his day.
Michelle
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Earthquake 11
I'm hoping this is one of the last posts with this title. Of course recovery will be a long process of years, but it's expected that the nuclear reactor will be under control soon. They are finally making progress.
After poisoning the reactor with boron and seawater, then using helicopters to dump seawater, and finally firetrucks, the end of the mess may finally be in sight. In reactors 1-4, the temperature has dropped below 100 C. Cables were successfully laid to reactors 1,2, and 3 today at the Fukushima Daiichi plant. It is hoped that the power through these will be able to support the cooling systems. Reactors 4-6 will have cables laid tomorrow. It is possible though that 5 and 6 may also have cables laid today though, but making sure that the reactors are safe is the first priority. According to Touden's Equipment Department, "We cannot say for certain if everything is better because we must check to make sure that there is not even one piece of equipment that does not work properly." Which is plain and non-Japanese English basically means, "Things are getting better, but we don't want to raise spirits too high yet because we want to make sure that everything is right first."
Also, MIT has made a lovely website to help everyone understand. It's in definitely more advanced scientific English, but if you have the time and you want to fully understand what's going on, go there. It's in the sources below.
To another day and the gradual improvement of the situation in Japan.
Michelle
Sources:
１・２号機へ送電復旧、１９日にも 福島第一原発 (Asahi Shinbun)
１～４号機「表面温度100度以下に」 防衛相が発表 (Nikkei)
３号機に注水成功 官房長官「一定の安定状態に」 (Nikkei)
MIT NSE Nuclear Information Hub
After poisoning the reactor with boron and seawater, then using helicopters to dump seawater, and finally firetrucks, the end of the mess may finally be in sight. In reactors 1-4, the temperature has dropped below 100 C. Cables were successfully laid to reactors 1,2, and 3 today at the Fukushima Daiichi plant. It is hoped that the power through these will be able to support the cooling systems. Reactors 4-6 will have cables laid tomorrow. It is possible though that 5 and 6 may also have cables laid today though, but making sure that the reactors are safe is the first priority. According to Touden's Equipment Department, "We cannot say for certain if everything is better because we must check to make sure that there is not even one piece of equipment that does not work properly." Which is plain and non-Japanese English basically means, "Things are getting better, but we don't want to raise spirits too high yet because we want to make sure that everything is right first."
Also, MIT has made a lovely website to help everyone understand. It's in definitely more advanced scientific English, but if you have the time and you want to fully understand what's going on, go there. It's in the sources below.
To another day and the gradual improvement of the situation in Japan.
Michelle
Sources:
１・２号機へ送電復旧、１９日にも 福島第一原発 (Asahi Shinbun)
１～４号機「表面温度100度以下に」 防衛相が発表 (Nikkei)
３号機に注水成功 官房長官「一定の安定状態に」 (Nikkei)
MIT NSE Nuclear Information Hub
Friday, March 18, 2011
Earthquake 10
Today marks one week since the great 9.0 earthquake that hit Japan on March 11. I looked up at the clock today, and it was a little surreal, since it was exactly 2:46 p.m., the time when the earthquake hit last Friday. My friend's boyfriend who was in Sendai during the quake was with us, and he looked up and was also a little uneasy. It seems that most of the clocks up there are stuck at 2:46.
We went out last night to grab a couple drinks at our local bar, celebrate that he was still alive, and reflect on everything that's happened. Since that time a week ago, Japan has experienced the tsunami, countless smaller earthquakes, and the nuclear threat. Oddly enough, something good has come out of this though. People in neighborhoods, etc. have become much closer, and there's a sense of community that perhaps wasn't there before. Last semester, I felt as if I was in Japan purely to study and to perhaps make a few good friends along the way. Now though, I've come to think of Japan as another home. People on the streets who before wouldn't talk to you are now not only willing to strike up a conversation, but they want to share their experiences and know your thoughts as well. Everyone is supporting each other, and for that reason, I'm thankful. If it wasn't for that, I don't know how Japan could have survived the disasters.
The nuclear threat is of course ever-present and it's the topic of conversation among everyone throughout the country. They have continued to pour water on the reactors and pools from the air, but this has not necessarily been successful. Right now, they are focusing on trying to return power to the plant in an effort to restart the automatic cooling systems. Considering these were damaged in the quake and subsequent tsunami, it is not known yet whether this will be successful, but it is the main goal. Of course, in the back of their minds, they are considering encasing the plant in sand and concrete in order to prevent further radiation escaping.
The Touhoku region is slowly recovering. Roads are being rebuilt, and electricity and running water are gradually being restored. People are still without homes though, so they are continuing to stay in evacuation centers like schools gyms, etc. They are still rationing food and water though. People are eating half an onigiri (rice ball) for lunch. Gasoline has run out, and kerosene, which they're using to heat the homes, is also dwindling. Despite the shortages, everyone is donating to try to help. Apparently there's a company now willing to take up goods by truck, so I'll investigate that and try to donate goods such as paper cups, miso, water, etc. which they desperately need. If that doesn't seem to work, then we can continue to donate organizations such as the Red Cross, etc. Konbini, schools, everyone is trying to raise funds for the north. It's nice to feel as if we're able to help a little bit.
I read something earlier, which was really touching. I wanted to share it with everyone so they could see Japan's thoughts on the disasters and how everyone is dealing with it. This site is a collection of those tweets:
Prayforjapan.jp
So to all those helping, I wanted to say thank you. Even if you can't afford to give anything to the cause, your prayers or thoughts are enough. Thank you again, and we'll all get through this together.
Michelle
We went out last night to grab a couple drinks at our local bar, celebrate that he was still alive, and reflect on everything that's happened. Since that time a week ago, Japan has experienced the tsunami, countless smaller earthquakes, and the nuclear threat. Oddly enough, something good has come out of this though. People in neighborhoods, etc. have become much closer, and there's a sense of community that perhaps wasn't there before. Last semester, I felt as if I was in Japan purely to study and to perhaps make a few good friends along the way. Now though, I've come to think of Japan as another home. People on the streets who before wouldn't talk to you are now not only willing to strike up a conversation, but they want to share their experiences and know your thoughts as well. Everyone is supporting each other, and for that reason, I'm thankful. If it wasn't for that, I don't know how Japan could have survived the disasters.
The nuclear threat is of course ever-present and it's the topic of conversation among everyone throughout the country. They have continued to pour water on the reactors and pools from the air, but this has not necessarily been successful. Right now, they are focusing on trying to return power to the plant in an effort to restart the automatic cooling systems. Considering these were damaged in the quake and subsequent tsunami, it is not known yet whether this will be successful, but it is the main goal. Of course, in the back of their minds, they are considering encasing the plant in sand and concrete in order to prevent further radiation escaping.
The Touhoku region is slowly recovering. Roads are being rebuilt, and electricity and running water are gradually being restored. People are still without homes though, so they are continuing to stay in evacuation centers like schools gyms, etc. They are still rationing food and water though. People are eating half an onigiri (rice ball) for lunch. Gasoline has run out, and kerosene, which they're using to heat the homes, is also dwindling. Despite the shortages, everyone is donating to try to help. Apparently there's a company now willing to take up goods by truck, so I'll investigate that and try to donate goods such as paper cups, miso, water, etc. which they desperately need. If that doesn't seem to work, then we can continue to donate organizations such as the Red Cross, etc. Konbini, schools, everyone is trying to raise funds for the north. It's nice to feel as if we're able to help a little bit.
I read something earlier, which was really touching. I wanted to share it with everyone so they could see Japan's thoughts on the disasters and how everyone is dealing with it. This site is a collection of those tweets:
Prayforjapan.jp
So to all those helping, I wanted to say thank you. Even if you can't afford to give anything to the cause, your prayers or thoughts are enough. Thank you again, and we'll all get through this together.
Michelle
Earthquake 9
Kyoto is still fine. Kansai is still fine. I'm aware of the 50 m radius that the US State Department has recommended people to evacuate from, but Kyoto is nowhere near that. Not even Sendai, which is in the Touhoku region, is in that. That includes parts of Yokohama, Tokyo, Nagoya, etc. We are still fine here.
University e-mailed me today recommending students should "strongly consider" coming home, but they linked to that link, though I'm wondering if they read it themselves. Since I'm personally several HUNDRED miles away, it's more than a little irritating. I'll continue to stay here where I'm safe.
Of course, I'm not being foolish. I've checked every news site known to man (that I consider reliable) and have re-registered with the State Dept (since they seem to have lost my info the first time) and am swamped with news media. No worries there. This is of course an informed decision, and it will continue to be so.
For a quick update to all those concerned:
Kansai cannot devote power to Kantou. This is because the Kansai region is on a 50 watt German system while the Tokyo region is on a 60 watt American system. There are places which can convert power, but it's only around 1,000 watts a day.
I still expect us to get some power rationing though since we've been urged to not use too much.
Management of the plant might be turn more toward American forces. TEPCO and the SDF are still trying their best.
Again, everything is fine here. Thank you for worrying about me, and please stay away from the sensational journalism that is causing unnecessary panic.
Michelle
University e-mailed me today recommending students should "strongly consider" coming home, but they linked to that link, though I'm wondering if they read it themselves. Since I'm personally several HUNDRED miles away, it's more than a little irritating. I'll continue to stay here where I'm safe.
Of course, I'm not being foolish. I've checked every news site known to man (that I consider reliable) and have re-registered with the State Dept (since they seem to have lost my info the first time) and am swamped with news media. No worries there. This is of course an informed decision, and it will continue to be so.
For a quick update to all those concerned:
Kansai cannot devote power to Kantou. This is because the Kansai region is on a 50 watt German system while the Tokyo region is on a 60 watt American system. There are places which can convert power, but it's only around 1,000 watts a day.
I still expect us to get some power rationing though since we've been urged to not use too much.
Management of the plant might be turn more toward American forces. TEPCO and the SDF are still trying their best.
Again, everything is fine here. Thank you for worrying about me, and please stay away from the sensational journalism that is causing unnecessary panic.
Michelle
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Earthquake 8
I'm surprised that somehow we've gotten to number 8 of these posts. Eventually I feel like I should give them a new name, but by this time it's sort of a them, and I suppose it helps all of you to keep track since some days I post twice and some days I only post once. Anyway, that's really beside the point.
Woke up this morning to find another another blast and another fire. The radiation temporarily rose high enough by the reactor that workers withdrew. 50 workers remained to manage the plant. A helicopter was going to pour water into the pools to decrease the temperature, but the radiation level directly above the reactor was high, so the helicopter withdrew. They will try again tomorrow. The fire was brought under control and the pressure and radiation has decreased again so that they can work on it, but we are very thankful to those workers.
Of things that are currently irritating:
1. The decision by Americans on the West Coast to buy iodine tablets because they are afraid of radiation. Kyoto, which is in Japan, is safe. Therefore, you are are a thousand miles away are also safe. Northern Japan needs them. Please donate.
2. The sensationalist journalism that is currently happening abroad. This is only serving to scare people, and is creating mass panic. Stop that newspapers. If we can be calm in the middle of this, then so can the people halfway around the world. Provide news and not rumors please.
3. A bunch of British scientists came over to Japan to try to help. They made it to their embassy to go do some last-minute paperwork and their embassy rejected them, saying it was too dangerous and for them to return home. Anyone who is willing to help should be able to. I understand right now there are shortages of things in northern Japan, and so that does not mean everyone should come and help. However, people such as scientists who can solve the problem should be welcomed, and not prohibited by their own government.
There are shortages in Tokyo and other regions of basic necessities such as bottled water, toilet paper, etc. Although these things are without a doubt needed, I urge you to talk to your local Red Cross of other chapter instead. Donating money which can be directed toward the item most needed at the time is more helpful.
In other news, this has been making the rounds on Twitter. I thought I'd post it here just so people could see.
国民感情一覧w - (A summary of the nation's current sentiments)
東電職員頑張れ (Touden Staff: Do your Best)
枝野は寝ろ (Edano: Get some sleep)
管は起きろ (Kan: Wake up)
自衛隊は食べろ (Japanese Self Defense Forces: Eat/Pass out Food)
フジテレビは自重しろ (Fuji TV: Step back! You're too close)
石原黙ってろ (Ishihara: Be quiet)
Thank you to everyone who is continuing to help. We really do appreciate everything you are doing here. Let's all work hard and solve this matter together.
Michelle
Sources:
http://www.asahi.com/national/update/0316/TKY201103160330.html
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/japan-nuclear-crisis-americans-buy-anti-radiation-pills/story?id=13142674
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12756366
Woke up this morning to find another another blast and another fire. The radiation temporarily rose high enough by the reactor that workers withdrew. 50 workers remained to manage the plant. A helicopter was going to pour water into the pools to decrease the temperature, but the radiation level directly above the reactor was high, so the helicopter withdrew. They will try again tomorrow. The fire was brought under control and the pressure and radiation has decreased again so that they can work on it, but we are very thankful to those workers.
Of things that are currently irritating:
1. The decision by Americans on the West Coast to buy iodine tablets because they are afraid of radiation. Kyoto, which is in Japan, is safe. Therefore, you are are a thousand miles away are also safe. Northern Japan needs them. Please donate.
2. The sensationalist journalism that is currently happening abroad. This is only serving to scare people, and is creating mass panic. Stop that newspapers. If we can be calm in the middle of this, then so can the people halfway around the world. Provide news and not rumors please.
3. A bunch of British scientists came over to Japan to try to help. They made it to their embassy to go do some last-minute paperwork and their embassy rejected them, saying it was too dangerous and for them to return home. Anyone who is willing to help should be able to. I understand right now there are shortages of things in northern Japan, and so that does not mean everyone should come and help. However, people such as scientists who can solve the problem should be welcomed, and not prohibited by their own government.
There are shortages in Tokyo and other regions of basic necessities such as bottled water, toilet paper, etc. Although these things are without a doubt needed, I urge you to talk to your local Red Cross of other chapter instead. Donating money which can be directed toward the item most needed at the time is more helpful.
In other news, this has been making the rounds on Twitter. I thought I'd post it here just so people could see.
国民感情一覧w - (A summary of the nation's current sentiments)
東電職員頑張れ (Touden Staff: Do your Best)
枝野は寝ろ (Edano: Get some sleep)
管は起きろ (Kan: Wake up)
自衛隊は食べろ (Japanese Self Defense Forces: Eat/Pass out Food)
フジテレビは自重しろ (Fuji TV: Step back! You're too close)
石原黙ってろ (Ishihara: Be quiet)
Thank you to everyone who is continuing to help. We really do appreciate everything you are doing here. Let's all work hard and solve this matter together.
Michelle
Sources:
http://www.asahi.com/national/update/0316/TKY201103160330.html
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/japan-nuclear-crisis-americans-buy-anti-radiation-pills/story?id=13142674
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12756366
Earthquake 7
You know, sometimes I don't feel like updating this. I normally enjoy updating the blog, but when it continues to be about the quake, it is heart-rending.
Another explosion today, and a fire. Both were brought under control. The radiation level briefly peaked, but was brought down again swiftly.
NHK continues its documentaries on how nuclear reactors work. It's helpful.
Heard from a friend's boyfriend today. He lives in Sendai as a JET; he is trying to come down to Kyoto. Also heard from another friend whose family is from Sendai. One of them is injured, and it seems as if they've lost everything. I wish I could do something to help.
Kyoto is still safe.
Going to go to bed now.
Michelle
Another explosion today, and a fire. Both were brought under control. The radiation level briefly peaked, but was brought down again swiftly.
NHK continues its documentaries on how nuclear reactors work. It's helpful.
Heard from a friend's boyfriend today. He lives in Sendai as a JET; he is trying to come down to Kyoto. Also heard from another friend whose family is from Sendai. One of them is injured, and it seems as if they've lost everything. I wish I could do something to help.
Kyoto is still safe.
Going to go to bed now.
Michelle
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Earthquake 6
No real news today. Another blast in one of the reactors, but no changes it seems outside.
The scheduled blackouts are affecting central Tokyo tomorrow. They were delayed today which caused some confusion (how you manage to delay a planned blackout, I have no idea, but nevertheless, they were delayed). However, I don't think they'll be delayed again. The government has said it will only affect the Kantou region, but I have a feeling it make affect the Kansai region eventually. These are supposed to go through April. We will see what happens.
In other news, structurally, Japan looks fine with the exception of northern Japan of course. Underneath the surface is where you start to notice things that aren't quite normal. Lines are closed for some subways and trains, even here in the Kansai region. One of the trains from Osaka the other day was just shut down to save power. They're trying to do it to prevent an unplanned blackout among other reasons. Lights are off in major cities in places they would never be off normally. I saw a shot of Ginza tonight that was almost black. It's a stark contrast from the Ginza before the earthquake.
Although I cannot force you, I urge everyone to help in any way they can. Please check if your local Red Cross chapter is sending anything over to Japan. Food, water, and blankets are needed in the shelters.
Thank you again for all of your help, and I'll keep all of you updated.
Michelle
The scheduled blackouts are affecting central Tokyo tomorrow. They were delayed today which caused some confusion (how you manage to delay a planned blackout, I have no idea, but nevertheless, they were delayed). However, I don't think they'll be delayed again. The government has said it will only affect the Kantou region, but I have a feeling it make affect the Kansai region eventually. These are supposed to go through April. We will see what happens.
In other news, structurally, Japan looks fine with the exception of northern Japan of course. Underneath the surface is where you start to notice things that aren't quite normal. Lines are closed for some subways and trains, even here in the Kansai region. One of the trains from Osaka the other day was just shut down to save power. They're trying to do it to prevent an unplanned blackout among other reasons. Lights are off in major cities in places they would never be off normally. I saw a shot of Ginza tonight that was almost black. It's a stark contrast from the Ginza before the earthquake.
Although I cannot force you, I urge everyone to help in any way they can. Please check if your local Red Cross chapter is sending anything over to Japan. Food, water, and blankets are needed in the shelters.
Thank you again for all of your help, and I'll keep all of you updated.
Michelle
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Earthquake 5
The nuclear evacuation zone expanded to 20 km. People have been going to safe houses and have been given iodine in case of radiation. Though we are being assured that it is still not at levels that will imperil humans.
A second reactor has started to have cooling issues. They released steam in the air to lower the pressure as well. Both reactors are planning to be cooled with seawater and boric acid. We have been assured that this is the best and safest method considering the circumstances.
There will be the chance of periodic blackouts throughout the country, but especially in Tokyo in order to donate more power to managing both the reactors and the relief efforts.
According to the Japanese Meteorological Agency, there is a 70% chance of an M7 earthquake in the next 3 days.
Relief efforts are going well.
I'm really wishing I could go participate in relief efforts, but right now all roads are closed with the exception of to emergency vehicles. The Japanese Special Defense Forces (SDF) have been deployed, and other countries have also donated people and help to the cause. For now, all we can do is donate.
Everyone I know here is safe. I thank everyone again for their concern and I ask you to keep everyone, especially those in northern Japan in their thoughts.
Michelle
A second reactor has started to have cooling issues. They released steam in the air to lower the pressure as well. Both reactors are planning to be cooled with seawater and boric acid. We have been assured that this is the best and safest method considering the circumstances.
There will be the chance of periodic blackouts throughout the country, but especially in Tokyo in order to donate more power to managing both the reactors and the relief efforts.
According to the Japanese Meteorological Agency, there is a 70% chance of an M7 earthquake in the next 3 days.
Relief efforts are going well.
I'm really wishing I could go participate in relief efforts, but right now all roads are closed with the exception of to emergency vehicles. The Japanese Special Defense Forces (SDF) have been deployed, and other countries have also donated people and help to the cause. For now, all we can do is donate.
Everyone I know here is safe. I thank everyone again for their concern and I ask you to keep everyone, especially those in northern Japan in their thoughts.
Michelle
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)