Necessities

Today is a very rainy day with hailstorms and heavy rain drops. This is going to hamper the rescue efforts and recovery work for all regions affected. The biggest concern at this moment, more than anything, is how to get these people to be self-sufficient so they can again fend for themselves.

The most important thing the survivors need now is tents. Most of the people who still have erect houses refuse to sleep inside fearful that it may collapse. One cannot blame them, they are petrified. The continuous tremors only contributes to the fear.

Another thing that is lacking, and I made a post regarding this on my blog too, that these people are desperate for anything to keep them warm. If they loot your truck its for two reasons:
1. You didn't stop and that makes them wonder if its not for them then who is it for
2. because you drive by on your way down without explaining what makes them less deserving.

I had three occasions where people started getting aggressive and rowdy, the best way to handle them is to raise your voice so as to attract their attention, do not be afraid because they don't want to be violent but if you look at their conditions, you would behave no differently.

Try to stop and talk to them. tell them that we are trying to see different places that are damaged so that we can determine how much of what is required here to help get things back on track. If you do not communicate with them, they will act out of character and that will create unnecessary nonsense. Be considerate of everyone when trying to help out. It is neither their fault nor ours. We are going to get through this if we stick together and stay focused.