We saw the grave images on the television of the devastation in Japan, with many lives lost and towns destroyed. Now the concern is raised around the fact that nuclear reactors are in danger of imploding and exposing the world to high levels of radiation. The issue of radiation is now a major concern to Japan's authorities as they try to cool down reactors. So far there have been high levels of radiation near plants and now we are hearing that the sea water has some levels of radiation. Radiation levels have also been detected in close neighbors. However there is no cause for alarm as the levels are low.


Japan's authorities has issued bans on exports of seafood and vegetables. We need to keep an eye on this situation as we are in tremendous danger if the reactors are not contained. The Japanese are working hard to control the situation. My concern is the level of radiation already emitted into the atmosphere by these broken reactors.


Experts have said that the levels are low, but we all know that experts have been wrong before. Everyone needs to watch out for food originating from Japan. Yes bans have been issued, but you still have to be on the watch for black market items.


What is clear is that Japan was not fully prepared for such a disaster. It is also evident that country's like Jamaica are not prepared either. Jamaica has had major earthquakes before, yet we do not have a clear plan for a disaster of this magnitude. There are cities built below sea levels without a sea wall, for example Portmore. Imagine if an earthquake with the magnitude of the one which hit Japan were to take place. A tsunami would totally devastate those cities which are close to the sea . Jamaica does not even have a tsunami alert system.


We need to be prepared for these types of situation. Let us learn from what has happened in Japan. Our prayers continue to go out for them.