Don’t Panic

Ok, let’s take a step back.

1. A lot of people have been trapped. But a relative few buildings are affected.
2. A lot of people are injured, but medical resources are coping very well indeed
3. Water is a problem, but workarounds are well under-way
4. A lot of buildings are damaged, but they were all insured, and resources were already being mustered to assess, repair and rebuild.
5. There are aftershocks, but because this was an aftershock, it won’t be as bad as before.
6. There is plenty of food
7. People are pulling together
8. Where resources are needed from elsewhere, they are being as organised quickly and efficiently as possible
9. Stuff is opening again – the airport is open, other things will open soon
10. There’s no cholera, nor is there a serious chance of an outbreak
11. It’s Christchurch and a few surrounding towns. The rest of the South Island is fine, and ready and willing to put all our resources at your disposal.

I guess what I’m saying is, Don’t Panic – it could be so much worse.