China's Earthquake Aftershocks Continue

Water and Gas Rationing and Tent Cities

Fifty miles from the epicenter of China's recent earthquake people are buying tents to camp in in parks, afraid to stay overnight in buildings. Very few apartments have lights on.

There have been 23 earthquakes since the big one yesterday. Most of the damage is in a mountainous area. Since it is raining, there are landslides and roads are damaged.

This is a very proud year for China as they host the Olympics. They want very much to earn respect in the world, yet, there are so many issues that threaten that possibility. This year has seen many challenges: extreme winter weather, tainted exported products, Tibet, a troubled Olympic torch run, hand-foot-mouth disease, a major train wreck, and now this earthquake.

People are buying up water. Gas for cars is limited to four gallons per fill up. They sent two vehicles to the affected areas loaded with water, tarps and other supplies. One man is a doctor who is taking medical supplies. Because of the broken roads, he couldn't get through yesterday and is trying a new route today.

The situation is many times better than in Myanmar where aid is being refused or stolen.