Friday, January 9, 2009

Urgent Need of Prayer

We urgently need your prayers here in Costa Rica. Yesterday at 1:21 p.m. we were hit by the most damaging earthquake Costa Rica has had in 118 years. It registered at 6.2 and the epicenter was some 10 kilometers from Poas Volcano. The damage is extensive due to the mountainous nature of the area. There are 14 known dead so far as of 7 a.m. today with dozens missing and feared buried under landslides. It is raining in the mountains this morning which is seriously hampering rescue operations, and increasing the possibility of more landslides. Entire communities are cut off as many miles of roads totally disappeared and bridges are gone as well. The Red Cross is trying to get into those areas by helicopter and the latest report is that the U.S. military in Honduras is sending down two large helicopters to help airlift people out. So far we have had over 1500 aftershocks and OVSICORI (the earthquake/volcano people) are advising that this may go on for an indefinite period of time. The epicenter was 35 kilometers NNW of San Jose where we live. We were shaken up quite a bit, but suffered no major damage. The quake was caused by movement of a local fault system (not tectonic or subductive). Geologists are keeping a close watch on Poas Volcano because the epicenter was quite close to the principle crater. Will try to keep everyone updated as much as possible.

8 comments:

Praise and Coffee said...

We're praying for you friend, I posted about it too.
Much love,
Sue

Tori Leslie said...

Oh no, I'm praying!

Debbie Petras said...

I'm praying Kathie and will alert others.

Anonymous said...

Kathie,
I came over from Praise and Coffee.
I wanted to let you know that we are praying!
"The Angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them." ~Psalm 34:7
Miriam

Lisa said...

Praying and lifting up everyone involved.

Anonymous said...

I'm praying, Mom. Love you.

Helen in the UK said...

Saw your message on AC4C group. It must have been a very frightening experience. Thinking and praying for all those affected :)

Amrita said...

Dear Kathie, saw a report on BBC. Its really a majotr diaster.ray for God 's protection andhelp.

Hope you are not going to get aftershocks. I 've been an earthquake lie this. Its very frightening. i can 't forget it.