Nuclear meltdown and radiation

After the 8.9-magnitude earthquake that disrupted the infrastructure in Japan, the new preoccupation is with the possible meltdown of a nuclear plant. Since the fall of water levels at a Japanese nuclear reactor, the uranium fuel rods were unprotected twice. This exposure is what might cause nuclear radiation.

Possible Radiation and Meltdown Risks

Even though the radiation leak is a possible risk that the country might have to deal with not far from now, the government is still trying to control the damage that already exists since the quake and the tsunami. Thousands of people are without electricity and in need of help. Up to now, officials believe that at least 10,000 have died because of the tragedy.

Once aware of the possible meltdown that could happen to the fuel rods, workers in charge of the nuclear plant managed to restore the water levels. But, when the second level decrease was noticed it was already too late and the chance of a radiation leak was higher.

Measures to Help Japanese Population

The Deputy Cabinet Secretary, Noriyuki Shikata, told reporters that “We have no evidence of harmful radiation exposure,” but, people who live in a 12-mile range were ordered to stay at home. The Prime Minister, Naoto Kan, said “Everyone connected with this is working with all their might without regard to day or night to prevent further damage if possible.”

To the Prime Minister, this episode can be considered Japan`s worst crisis since 65 years ago, when the war ended. In order to help the people in need, Prime Minister Kan will send 100,000 professionals from the Self-Defense Forces. The personnel are going to be positioned at the most devastated areas around Sendai.