Tuesday, May 13, 2008

EARTHQUAKE!!

On Monday (5/12) afternoon around 2:30, aftershocks of one of the largest earthquakes (7.9) to hit China in over 30 years were felt here in Lanzhou (a 22 hour train ride away from the epicenter). It happened around 60 miles north of Chengdu in the Sichuan province.

I have felt little tremors in Denver before and one medium earthquakein Guatemala years ago, but this was the largest one I have ever felt. I was at home, doing Pilates and stopped to take a drink because I was feeling dizzy. Then I realized the building was moving (rather swaying) and not me.

The shocks continued for about 2 - 3 minutes. I just sat down and rode it - like a roller coaster. I should've left the building instead. Most students were in class at the time and many of them told me that some students, as they were exiting the teaching building were pushing their way out. Phones are not working. Outside of Lanzhou, texting works and the internet is up.

I had some students call me late at night, worried that it would happen again, scared to go back inside. Overwhelming what is going on down south nearer the epicenter. Peace Corps has spoken to every volunteer and everyone is all right. Grateful to be all right but scared shitless about the people trapped in rubble.

Send good thoughts.