When the Earth danced
The Earthquake in Peru on August 15, 2007 will remain in my memory forever - the minutes that the Earth and the Columban Mission Education building "danced."
The 7.9 magnitude Earthquake hit about 90 miles (145kms) southeast of Lima at a depth of about 25 miles (41kms). Four strong aftershocks ranging from magnitudes of 5.4 to 5.9 were felt afterwards.
Most of the damage, deaths and injuries occurred in towns on the south coast nearest the epicentre, about 100 miles south of Lima. Hardest hit were the areas of Pisco, Ica and Chincha
Dear All,
I've come to the Centre House and received dozens of enquiries about the effects of the Earthquake. Thank you for your concern.
I've contacted Fr Bill Moran, the Columban Bursar in Melbourne about a possible way of channelling any funds that people may send to the Earthquake relief. The Director here in Peru Fr Diego Cabrera requests that donations be sent - "Director Peru - Peru South." All funds will be passed on to "Caritas Peru." It was by far the strongest and longest quake that I have felt (nearly two minutes - the main shake!!) during my years of living in Peru.
The news from the affected areas is shocking. The magnitude of the destruction is hard to comprehend. The word is of at least 80,000 people homeless in the southern coastal towns with 500-600 known dead and thousands injured.
Due to the lack of communication with the coastal towns to the South there was little information available. The main Pan American Highway south was blocked and damaged in different places. The location of the epicentre of the major quakes was in the ocean opposite three major towns about 6-7 hours south of Lima. These towns of Pisco, Ica, Chincha and others have been seriously affected.
After the major quake there were a number of aftershocks. I admit that it was a frightening experience. After the first moments of the tremor, the building shook more strongly and the rumbling sound that accompanies an Earthquake grew louder. It will remain in my memory - the minutes that the Earth and the Columban Mission Education building "danced."
Please have a place in your prayers these days for the people of Peru and especially those in the affected areas. Again thanks to those of you who have communicated during the past few days. I was moved to receive so many E-mails.
Regards,
Bernie Lane
