Frogs and Ravens

Japanese Disaster - Info Blog Available to Help

My friend in Tokyo has put together an English-language blog for people in Japan who need information but don't have good Japanese language skills.

It is intended to provide updates about blackouts, where to get aid, food availability, access to transport, etc. - all the sorts of practical things that people there need to know but may be having trouble finding out about.

(It is not meant to be a news clearinghouse or an explanation of how tsunamis and nuclear reactors work.)

 

Please forward to anyone who might need it.

http://disasterjapan.wordpress.com/

He also needs translators; email me if interested.

Links for Japan

I grew up in California and have friends and family in Japan (thankfully all safe)    , so the current tragedy hits home.  A link round-up is the least I can do.

 

Google's clearinghouse and Person Finder.  If you know the status of someone in Japan (including yourself) consider posting it here:  http://www.google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html

 

Shakesville's links and comments thread: http://shakespearessister.blogspot.com/2011/03/open-thread-and-news-round-up.html

 

YouTube video uploads relating to the quake and tsunami: http://www.youtube.com/citizentube#g/c/0870831CE43351E1

 

Breaking news round-up: http://www.breakingnews.com/filter/japan-earthquake

 

Map showing intensity of shock wave through the Pacific Ocean: http://wcatwc.arh.noaa.gov/2011/03/11/lhvpd9/energylhvpd9-05.jpg

 

Large format photographs of the devastation: http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2011/03/earthquake-in-japan/100022/

 

List of charities and other organizations dealing on the ground in Japan (with links): http://philanthropy.com/article/Charities-Respond-to-Pacific/126706

 

Earthquake updates for foreigners in Japan (on Facebook): http://www.facebook.com/earthquakeinfo.foreigner

 

Free calls to Japan using Rebtel: http://blog.rebtel.com/uncategorized/free-calls-to-japan-with-rebtel-until-march-14/

 

If you have additional links or news, please post them below.  Word is that after the initial calm response, people are starting to get panicky as the lack of accurate news is a problem.  There is concern not only about a nuclear plant meltdown, but also more straightforward problems such as lack of food in the stores.