POWERFUL+INDONESIA+QUAKE

Introduction

It was any other day in the area of Indonesia. People where going about there regular business on this day as if it was just any other. They know they live in an area that can be plagued with earthquakes and tsunamis. Yet, they still go about there regular activities until Mother Nature decide to unleash her power into the area. Well this happened on September 23. That Wednesday turned out not to be a regular day for the area. What resulted were a couple of earthquakes with destructive force. The people in the area were already rebuilding from a devastating disaster in 2006. Indonesia, part of the “ring of fire,” has the largest number of active volcanoes in the world. Earthquakes are very frequent for this area do to being near the plates. Yet you can never be fully prepared for an earthquake or the destruction it leaves behind, considering that it is the most destructive force on Earth.

SYNOPSIS

The 6.6 magnitude earthquake that hit Padang left people stunned and dazed. Another one hit not to long after the first which was even more powerful coming in at a magnitude of 7.6. The quake was so powerful that it was felt by towns nearby. People searched for more survivors. Yet, it was highly unlikely to be any. It crumbled many buildings that trapped thousands. The earthquake not only destroyed buildings but caused widespread power and phone outages. This made it difficult for officials to determine the damage actually caused. The only light that evening came from Padang's hospital and airport. Thousands of homes were destroyed. Many citizens slept outside, even though it rained that evening, for fear of more tremors coming along. Overall the damage was spotty. The earthquake left some buildings intact however. Yet, there were many destroyed also. Not only were buildings brought down but many people lost there lives in the mayhem. Aid for the disaster was already prepared as quoted, “We had aid ready because this area of Indonesia is susceptible to this type of tragedy," said Jane Cocking, humanitarian director for Oxfam. "Communications with the quake-zone are difficult, and we are hoping for the best but having to plan for the worst."



THE FUTURE

Since 2004, geologist have been predicting a very powerful earthquake to hit the area. Many thought that either one of these two could have been the ones they have been predicting. Yet, scientists believe that the worst is yet to come. Many clues suggest this theory, Such as, how the earthquake did not happen near the plate interface and some other clues. But all the clues add up to this just being a freak rupture of a stressed fracture deep within the Indo-Australian plate rather than slippage at the plate interface. Knowing this information can help geologist create computer simulations just to have an idea of what might happen. What scientists predict will happen when this predicted earthquake happens? Well, it will produce many tsunamis that will reach the area within 30 minutes and at least 12meters high. This also helps with being prepared incase of another event such as the one predicted. Escapes plans are already being made just for some preparation if the worst is yet to come.