Can we just *talk* about Japan/radiation worst case scenarios? [View All]

[CoffeeCat]

Regardless of how you feel about nuclear power, or what you believe will or will not happen--it is
apparent that the media has left many people thirsting for facts regarding the radiation released
in Japan.

I understand that the Japanese officials have been less-than forthcoming about what is happening. However,
there has been a very serious lack of information (and sometimes conflicting information) about what exactly is
happening; what these events mean; and the radiation and health threats that people around the world could face.

I've read articles from very prominent news sources that seemed to whitewash everything. One New York Times
article offered a rose-colored-glasses slant that was easily debunked in the comments section. Yesterday, the
Times showed us a colored map of radiation, as it would sweep across the United States, but we were told that
it was no big deal.

Ok, seriously. I'm tired of this. I am not a child who needs to be told stories about unicorns and rainbows
until the situation is so dire that the adults feel have no choice but to break the truth. I understand that
we might not be dealing with an utter catastrophe that is worse than Chernobyl. However, since this nuclear
disaster began unfolding--it has iteratively become worse and worse. The curve is a downward trend, and it's
possible that this situation *could* spiral into the worst nuclear disaster to ever hit the planet.

But no one is discussing that and helping the people of the world prepare for worst-case scenarios.

Can we discuss this? Can we talk about planning for a situation in which harmful radiation may affect Japan and
other areas of the world? Can we have a discussion and a brainstorm session?

How can we prepare? What should people do? Are their websites? Is it possible to ascertain the likely outcomes?

DU is such a great resource. I'm sure there are people with expertise and experience in the areas of nuclear
energy, chemistry, etc.--who may be able to shed some light. And others, without expertise, may be able to
point us toward resources, or share information that you have read or learned. Opinions and thoughts are
important and helpful too!

It doesn't matter if the mainstream media is being obtuse because they don't have the story--or because they're
doing damage control for powerful nuclear-energy interests. The result is the same. The people lack reliable,
useful information and facts. This leaves us vulnerable.

I hope we can share information and opinion here.