Current Event #4: Indus Valley
Deja Vu?
People flee flooded areas in Shahdadkot, Sindh province, Pakistan, on September 28.
Due: Friday, October 5th
In class, we have learned about the ancient Indus Valley civilizations and how archaeologists speculate that the disappearance of the Harappan twin capitals may have been the result of natural disasters such as flooding or a shifting of the plate tectonics Thousands of years later, recent reports show how the country's notable monsoons have tragically threatened the lives and land of its people. This week our current event centers around the devastation which the wet monsoons in Pakistan has caused.
What you will do:
Read the CNN article http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/29/world/asia/pakistan-floods/index.html?hpt=wo_c1
and watch the following video to see a first hand account of the tragedy to begin forming your thoughts.
|
|
Secondly, respond to the questions below in complete, detailed sentence, paragraphs to express your thoughts and opinions.
1. In comparison to the notable hurricanes of New Orleans, what similarities (i.e. displacement of villagers, structural damages, loss of life/crops/resources, injuries, etc.) can be drawn to compare with the recent monsoons which have occurred in Pakistan?
2. Geographically speaking, what might be possible measures or solutions the residents of Pakistan can take to perhaps secure a better structurally sound defense against the continuum of yearly floods? Provide examples of methods used by other places past and present.
3.The video features footage of the catastrophic disaster and reports that the residents have not received any aid/help or the solicitation from any government officials. How would you respond to such a calamity if you were placed in a leadership role at this time?
Morgan Durant
ReplyDeleteHonors world history
Period 1
The monsoon in Pakistan is very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans because of many peoples displacement the lack of government aid and the more common storm related events such as famine flooding loss of person possession and family.
I think that leaves and dams would be the most practical solution and while raising structures could be more efficient it would be difficult to recreate a new system however damaged buildings should be built up
If I were in power I would increase economy by creating jobs that would pay enough to sustain leave workers while trading with other nations for extra crops until agriculture is restarted. The crops bought from other nations would be sold so that the government could get its money back and only have to pay for increased agriculture and dam workers
The recent tragedy in Pakistan is very similar to Hurricane Katrina. The only major differences were the location, and the type of disaster. In hurricane Katrina lives were lost, and people went missing. Houses were damaged and crops were destroyed. All of the same has happened recently in Pakistan. Both “storms” caused major flooding and lots of damage was made with water.
ReplyDeleteThe residents of Pakistan can do many things to secure themselves and the land against these disasters. Living on higher levels or on hills could benefit them, because they would have less of a change of their houses getting floods. Also, planting crops at higher elevation could save them from being submerged in flood waters. Since the ancient times, people have used drainage systems. Maybe if the civilizations in Pakistan used more advanced drainage systems. I have also heard of towns that have troubles with flooding to plant lots of trees because the soil absorbs water.
I think that it is horrible that the victims have not received special aid from their government. If i was in control I would try to provide medical attention to all those who needed it, and send out search teams to find those who have gone missing. Another way to help the people would be to send out teams to help rebuild and reconstruct damaged property and houses to help the victims get back on their feet financially.
Anna Castellano
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
The hurricanes of New Orleans share some similarities with the recent monsoons which have occurred in Pakistan. The loss of homes, the loss of crops, and deaths and injuries to the villagers can be drawn to compare with the recent monsoons. Not only the floods are dangerous, but the high winds are as well. Both result in deaths and injuries of villagers. People both in New Orleans and Pakistan have been displaced by the recurrent flooding with devastation lasting for months and years.
Geographically speaking, possible measures or solutions the residents of Pakistan can take to perhaps secure a better structurally sound defense against the continuum of yearly floods could be flood gates. When I visited New Orleans I saw that the houses were up higher and there were grates to let the water pass below the houses when the water on the street rose too high.
If I were in a government position when a catastrophic disaster has occurred, I would do all that I could to help the residents stay safe and help rebuild the village and its infrastructure. I would respond to disaster by calling in the Red Cross and rescue organizations into the disaster area rapidly to help with first aide and clean up before health outbreaks and further damage can occur. I would welcome the aide of relief organizations and fresh clean water too. I would provide safe and clean housing until it is safe to return to the village.
Avery Acierno
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
10/1/12
1. There are quite a few similarities between the recent monsoons in Pakistan and the notable hurricanes of New Orleans. First of all they were both very devastating and tragic natural disasters that resulted in many lost and hurt lives. Both the hurricanes (Katrina and Isaac) and the monsoon floods have damaged the respective place more than once. Both have resulted in displacement of people and left them without homes. They have both claimed many lives with the floods and great winds they brought and injured many more. They have also both accounted for losing crops and other resources important to survival. All these things are especially true for the floods in Pakistan. Since Pakistan isn’t as developed as a country, the floods have hurt them more, and left their people with no food, water, help or shelter. These disasters have also economically hurt the places the struck, costing lots to repair the damage.
2. To prevent so much damage from the floods, Pakistan should install irrigations systems or other mechanisms that would keep floods from devastating the country. One thing they could is build dams or trenches around the rivers to prevent the water from spilling over into villages during monsoons. These systems were used in ancient times and are used lots of places today, including in the U.S. (for example the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. Another thing Pakistan could do is make channels or other drainage systems for the river when it overflows. This could also be useful to get water to crops by way of the drainage system. This is used in ancient times (by the Sumerians in Mesopotamia) and in modern times (the channels for the Thames River in London).
3. First of all I think it is very tragic and terrible that these Pakistani people have been devastated by these floods and have received no aid. If I had to lead the response to the catastrophe I would first of all do everything possible to make sure everyone had enough resources (food, shelter) to survive at least half a year. After I had everyone secure for the time being I would start focusing on rebuilding. The relief efforts wouldn’t be able to rebuild all of Pakistan at once, so I would focus on specific regions, starting with the most devastated. Hopefully, with generous aid from others, I would be able to get Pakistan back to a sustainable level in a year or two. I hope that is able to happen in reality too.
Paige Haskins
ReplyDeletePeriod 7
10/2/12
The monsoons in Pakistan were very similar to Hurricane Irene which hit in New Orleans. Both natural diasters cause many poeple to be left homeless and hungry. They wiped out most if not all of the crops in the area causing major agriculture problemns. They also killed and injurded many lives. House were flooded and people were forced from their homes. The major difference is the type of storm that occured.
To prevent themselve from further damage, Pakistan residents could live on higher grounds as well as plant crops at a higher elevation. Also, to insure that they couldn't be harmed by another flash flood or monsoon, they could build either flood gates which would decrease the probablity of a future flood or they could create a more efficient drainage systyem that allows the water to leave quicker. As well as building trenches outside the city to catch the overflow of all the water. Dams and more stable walls inside buildings could also help prevent a future monsoon from doing extreme damage.
When it comes to the goverments responsibilty to aid cities in help, obviously they should move as quickly as possibly to help any lives in danger. I think it's terrible that the citizens of Pakistan didn't recieve any medical help from the goverment. If i was in charge I would provide a food and water source and medical support immendiantly. Further more, I would assembly members to rebuild the houses and search for missing citizens. Also, to provide a place for citizens to stay until their houses are fully restored.
Francisco Coch
ReplyDelete7
In the CNN article, the recent monsoon rains were credited as the cause for killing over 400 people, washing away houses and crops, and injuring thousands. These effects are similar to what happened in New Orleans, as those were also responsible for the deaths of many, and the destruction of property.
The people of Pakistan could potentially avoid such consequences by relocating their homes to places of higher elevation. This would help by securing their crops from being damaged, as well as removing the possibility of having their homes flooded.
If I were placed in charge at such a time, I would have these people transported away from the disaster site and have them receive medical aid. I would then order the clean up of the area and have homes built in a different place, away from path of potential natural dangers.
David Cho
ReplyDeleteCurrent event 4
10/2/12
period 2
The disasters in Pakistan is very similar to the hurricane in the New Orleans because both were disasters that were devastating and left marks in history. both had floods and knocked over buildings and other structures forcing people to leave their homes.
in the future the homes should be given more of a foundation so that they would have little or no chance of falling. Or they can relocate to an area that won’t be affected by the floods
If i had a leadership role i would send help as soon as possible. because while i’m sitting comfortably people in pakistan don’t even have a place to stay, and it wouldn't be fair for the people if i did not help them rebuild.
Jackson Cabell
ReplyDelete7th Period
1) These terrible monsoons that have taken place in Pakistan are, in some cases, very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans. They both cause damaged and lost lives of innocent citizens, destroyed homes, roads were trashed, and people were displaced around their communities. The floods from both the hurricane and the monsoon went almost as high as some buildings and homes, there were mud marks and water marks to show that line of the water of the floods.
2) What I think that Pakistan civilians can do to ensure protection from the monsoons is to structure their homes better. They should build their house just like beach houses where the houses are at least a story or two above the ground so that if a monsoon was to occur, the water would not affect it at all.
3) If I were given the role of leadership at this time in Pakistan, I would be the exact opposite of calm. No one has come to help and the citizens are devastated because they have no help from the government; that means that I would have to do a lot of work. None of the citizens really know what to do, and neither would I so if I was the leader, there would be very little improvements to the disaster in Pakistan.
Mary Louise Callaghan
ReplyDelete2nd Period
10/2/12
1. The hurricanes that have hit New Orleans are very similar to the monsoons in Pakistan. They have both caused tremendous suffering, through the loss of crops, homes, and hundreds of lives. Unlike New Orleans and the U.S. , Pakistan is not as far along as a country. New Orleans was able to rebound from this disaster more quickly. Where as the monsoons left an uncountable amount of people in Pakistan homeless, wet and hungry, with no help or funds to get them back to where they were.
2. I think that the people of Pakistan could do plenty to defend themselves against natural disasters. They could start by living on a higher elevation, by building your houses and planting crops they would be less prone to flooding. Also building dams to prevent some if not most of the water from reaching peoples houses would be smart, as well as digging a type of irrigation system to direct the water from the floods elsewhere.
3. I think it is horrible that their government has done nothing to help them. If I were in charge I would supply food and shelter for all the victims, while I was working to rebuild their homes. Also medical assistance would be provided quickly, and search parties world be assembled to find missing people.I would hopefully be able to bring them back to where the were before the monsoons, something I hope happens in reality too.
Rebecca Harless
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
October 2, 2012
There are many similarities between the hurricanes of New Orleans and the wet monsoons of Pakistan. Both the monsoons and hurricanes caused huge amounts of water to flood the land. The floods caused buildings, homes, to be destroyed, not able to be lived in in Pakistan, where the people in the video were sitting around on benches and tables while the very stones of their homes were scattered and broken, and in New Orleans, where the houses were unable to be entered and destroyed because of the flooding. In Pakistan, the crops were flooded and unable to be eaten, like in New Orleans. Villagers were displaced in both places, except that the people in New Orleans were gathered and taken away, while the people in Pakistan just stayed there. People died in both places, were injured, and both were sick with diseases, because no one cleaned up.
I think that Pakistan residents could prevent the tragedies because of the floods. People in the past and present have used levies and irrigation canals to divert the water, like the Sumerians. Also, walls could be built to prevent the water from entering the towns, even a dam that could provide energy, like Hoover Dam, and divert the water. They could also create more canals to spread the water evenly across more farmland, giving more crops as well.
It is an awful, horrible thing that the people of Pakistan have not received any aid or help or even the visiting of government officials. I would respond so differently if I were placed in a leadership role at this time. I would first send people out there to scout the damages to the homes, crops, and people, and set up multiple hospitals around the area to offer immediate help. I would also send people to start draining water to the surrounding areas and gathering any dead bodies. For the survivors, I would then send out boats or buses to get them to another safe place, like a building set up in advance protected against floods. I would bring out food and water, hot and drinkable, to the people, and have them try to salvage the crops. When the floods stop, I would have people build more buildings and homes to replace the old ones and set up canals, levies, and walls to prevent this in the future. I am astonished by the lack of government interest and assistance, and by how awful these floods are.
Anna Grace Kelley
ReplyDelete10/02/12
Period 7
As we have been talking about in class, monsoon winds and flooding are a big problem in the Indus Valley area. The recent floods in Pakistan can easily be compared to the hurricanes that hit New Orleans a few years ago. These two instances of flooding destroyed almost everything in these cities leaving people devastated and desperate. Because of the massive amount of damage done in New Orleans, the government went to pretty extreme measures to ensure that it never happens again. One of the things they did was make new levees that were strong and more stable. If Pakistan were able to create some sort of protection like levees to keeps the floods out, the amount of destruction that these floods create would be much less.
When events like these happen, the government must be ready to help the victims in any way possible. If I were in a role of leadership when these floods hit Pakistan, I would make sure we saved as many people as possible. One of the best ways to do this is to drop supplies to them by helicopter until we could get them out of there. Anything is better than nothing, and when disaster like this one hits, the government must be ready to respond quickly and efficiently.
Abby Kameny
ReplyDelete10/2/2012
5th period
There are several similarities between the frequent hurricanes in New Orleans and the recent monsoons in Pakistan. Both natural disasters resulted in the destruction of houses and buildings, citizens injured or killed, and lack of food. People have had to move out of their own homes due to these floods. In Pakistan, about 350,000 people were forced to leave their hometown- this situation is very similar to the hurricanes in New Orleans. Although the specific types of natural disasters differ between these two geographical locations, both have suffered a great deal because of them.
I believe there could be many actions being taken to help prevent flooding in Pakistan. Dams being built could prevent future flooding, and it is a very practical resolution to this crisis. Another factor that would help contribute to the prevention of floods is buildings and houses built on higher elevation. I know of many places with houses built on stilts, and I’m sure it’s a very significant part of their lives- without them, floods would destroy their community just like in Pakistan. Another major cause of floods is global warming. Carbon dioxide gets trapped in the ozone layer, which increases temperature. The higher temperature is currently melting the polar ice caps; therefore causing more flooding. Recycling, driving less, and gardening are just a few ways to help slow global warming. Not only should citizens of Pakistan take action, but everyone around the world needs to realize how much floods can damage a country and its people.
I was shocked to learn that the government is not helping Pakistan. If I were a political leader, I would definitely send aid and money to my country. It’s unfair that the citizens of Pakistan have to suffer through this catastrophe, and it’s their government’s job to take care of the problem. Before taking any action, Pakistan’s government needs to at least realize how much of a crisis they’re in. I believe their government is currently being very passive and needs to do its job.
Ari Horwitz
ReplyDelete10/2/12
7th Period
4th Current Event
The monsoons in Pakistan are similar to the many hurricanes that have devastated New Orleans in past years. They both have caused several hundreds of deaths and injuries. They also have caused homes, crops, and almost all possessions people have to be washed away with the rising water levels. This has left a huge number of people stranded with next to nothing. Both situations resulted in economical and financial problems for thousands of people.
Obviously the people that live in the villages in Pakistan don’t have a very wealthy life and depend on there farming for food and a small income. It would definitely be hard to build better-structured houses with the amount of money these people have. With some government aid, steps can be taken to at least strengthen the homes these people live in so they can be secure and safe during the storms and monsoons that occur in the area. In civilizations dating back to ancient Indus have used some sort of drainage system to control water levels. Up till today in almost all of the US there are sewers and drainage systems that help tremendously when disaster strikes.
It definitely surprised me that these villages are getting just about no support and help during these times of need. If I were put into a leadership role I would definitely start by giving resources and medical attention to the people that were affected from these floods. With the help provided it could start the recovery process that is needed in these areas. After heath and famine is decreased I would start planning out systems to help benefit the prevention of these happenings. The residents of these villages are in need at the moment. If the government doesn’t take steps, the outcome of these monsoons will be a lot worse then they could be.
Katherine Yang
ReplyDelete5th Period H World History
1. The hurricanes in New Orleans, while devastating, did not affect the residents of New Orleans as much as the monsoons have affected Pakistan. Hurricane after hurricane has hit the harbor city, and it, being so populated and part of America, a ‘developed’ country, has precautions against natural disasters. The people living in New Orleans are often well informed beforehand of a hurricane sighting or warning. In contrast, the Pakistani people living in the rural areas where the monsoon hit the most, have little or no way of finding out when flood waters are predicted to rise and cover their homes. Residents of New Orleans had money in digital banks, houses with hurricane protection, and insurance for many items. Pakistani had few items to begin with, and were forced to practically move, away from their homes, to who knows where, because of their unforetold circumstances, homeless, without resources, and few offers of help.
2. Probably the best place to be during a flood would be high ground, possibly in the Himalayas, the Karakoram or the Hindu Kush. Maybe not the highest, but a level area from which the flood waters can be monitored and scouted. In the past, the Harappans built their homes on top of dried brick and clay foundations, raising them higher than the ground. This would help to evade flood waters. In addition, many beach homes along the west coast of the US are built on stilts, so that any rising waters that result from hurricane season do not damage the house. Both these techniques could be used by the residents of Pakistan.
3. If I was placed in a leadership role at the time of a calamity, with no help from any government officials, then I would try to save as many people as possible. All the able-bodied people would spread out in small teams to search for and rescue other survivors, and some people would scavenge for food, dry clothing, and anything that we could use. After this, we would all go to the nearest high ground, be it a tall building, rooftops, or a mountain. We would continuously try to signal for any survivors to join us in the safe area and scavenge for food and materials while also looking for a place more suitable for long-term residence, including growing or raising food and building sturdy shelters in case the disaster was not over.
Isabelle Alzona
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
The hurricanes in New Orleans and the monsoons in Pakistan are very much alike both in character and damage. Monsoons and hurricanes are both storms that have large winds and drop gigantic amounts of water onto the near by area. And both create catastrophe. People are driven out of their homes, buildings collapse, crops and fields are flooded, and people get sick from the stagnant water. Tons of people loose their lives because of these natural disasters.
In New Orleans they have flood walls, since they’re below sea level they have to have some way of keeping the water out. A simple fix for Pakistan would be to install flood walls or gates so that water won’t spread and destroy everything. Also, to live on hills or places of higher elevation would help the house damage problems. Like those houses on stilts you see on the coast. A simple fix for a not so simple problem.
The fact that officials haven’t come to help the Pakistanis horrifies me. If it’s someone you can depend on it should be the government. If I was in charge I would move as fast as possible to help those in need. I’d provide clean water, food, medical supplies, even bags of sand to keep flooding at bay. When your home and life is in danger the government should be there to help, not to turn away.
Casey Patterson
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
10/03/12
1. In hurricane Katrina 1,800 were killed and 703 displaced or driven from their homes. More than 420 people were killed and 350,000 were displaced in the flooding in Pakistan.
In hurricane Katrina the death toll was much higher than that of the flooding in Pakistan but more people were affected by the moonsoons in Pakistan. 80% of the cash crops in Pakistan were flooded or destroyed.
2. Pakistan can prevent flooding by improving drainage and harvesting rain water. With financial aid and help from other countries Pakistan coul build canals or even dikes and levees. Dikes and leeves help prevent rivers and likes from overflowing. Canals would help with drainage and they could get rid of the water a little better.
3. If I were in a leadership role at the moment I would try to help. If that leadership role was in pakistan I would definetley send financial aid and try to get other countries to help us. If I were a leader of another midddle eastern country I could send in people like search and rescue teams insyead of financial aid. It seems like the U.S.A sends financial aid to places after every natural disaster so I would probably do the same.
Sam Bauers
DeleteWaters 2nd
10/3/12
1)The recent flooding in Pakistan has left thousands hurt and homeless, some even killed. The monsoon that caused this is very similar to the hurricanes that effected the east coast including Louisiana years ago. Both were very devastating and killed over a thousand people. They also both left thousands homeless and in some cases helpless with no where to go. However New Orleans was not nearly as hurt when it comes to cash crops. 80% of Pakistan's crops were destroyed in the floods which I can only guess will greatly hurt the economy.
2)There are some ways I believe they could help stop so costly floods. One they could set up some sort of drainage system to help keep an orderly flow to help control the floods. They could also build more buildings and crops above ground. Many buildings are built below sea level or in places where it floods consistently, if you were to build the buildings on stilts of some sort the water would flow under therefor leaving the buildings in tact.
3)If I were in leadership of Pakistan I would try with all my power to provide some sort of help or relief to the people. I might even create some sort of evacuation with air crafts if I had the resources. Obviously the government is in a tough spot because there is going to be so much money spent in property damages. However, if I were the Pakistanis I would call in as many favors as possible. I wouldn't be able to stand by and just let people die or get hurt.
Tommy Mozier
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
1:Obvisouly, you can compare because of the flooding and what not, but I feel that this disaster has the same scale of Katrina, and it is amplified by the fact that Pakistan does not have as much money and technology to clean it up as we do.
2. You could not build houses in low areas, and for cities and towns in low areas, build walls to at least give the cities a chance. Al you can channel the floods into canals to use as irrigation and transportation
3. If I were leader, I would definitely help and put out some teams of people to clean it up. Also call for volunteers to help clean up, or even pay people to help clean up.
Paige Jones
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
1) I think the monsoons in Pakistan and the hurricanes in New Orleans are similar in a lot of ways. Both the monsoons and hurricanes have damaged homes, killed people, and left people scattered around and not in place. I think we would have been able to recover quicker than Pakistan, because it’s still developing. Also, both have left people with no way to recover, because they have no money, food or shelter.
2) I think people living in Pakistan could do some things to prepare from flooding, but not a lot. I think they could live in elevated houses, like at the beach, so the houses don’t completely flood with water. I don’t know much about farming, so I don’t know if there’s certain crops that do better when there are floods or if all crops die during floods, but they could at least grow crops in large portions to save through out a certain amount of time. I think it would be hard to prepare for flooding, but at least something could be done.
3) I think the government should definitely do something to help the citizens. I think they should send out medical teams to help the injured people and keep them from dying. Also, what ever food that survived should be distributed to each family and shelter should be provided if they can. I think the government should try to do anything they can to help the citizens.
McKenna Willoughby
ReplyDelete10/3/12
Period 2
1) There are many similarities between New Orleans hurricanes and Pakistan monsoons. Both have had many homes lost in the floodwaters, which left many citizens homeless. Many of those citizens had no shelter to stay in. Illnesses spreaded easily. Millions of dollars in resources were lost to due to damage from the floods. There were also many injuries, as well as deaths associated with both.
2) I think that one thing that Pakistan can do to be better prepared for the floods is to build their homes on stilts. Many homes in other countries by the coast are on stilts and they are very effective for keeping homes away from the floodwaters. Pakistan could improve their drainage system too. The more canals and levees they have, the less likely it is to flood. Also, if more of the homes and crops were on higher ground, then the floodwaters would be less likely to reach them.
3) If I were placed in a leadership role in Pakistan, I would try in every way that I could to remove all the citizens that were trapped by the floodwaters. I would send helicopters and rescue boats to evacuate as many people as I could. Then, I would provide food, shelter, water, and other necessities to those I evacuated.
Shreyas Pyati
ReplyDelete10/3/12
Period 7
1. Although the floods in New Orleans were quite terrible and damaging, they were nothing compared to the destruction that has been left in the wake of the floods in Pakistan. I think that New Orleans is used to getting these yearly hurricanes and also they are much more developed and funded. However, in Pakistan there is not enough funding so even if they are used to the floods, they don't have any safety measures in place.
2. I would use better building materials for the houses. Villages in India and Pakistan can be made of straw and branches woven together. Usually it is just used at a shelter, not a place to live for extended periods of time without repair. Also, a natural barrier of soil and dirt could be built and the river redirected to provide flood relief.
3. I would provide health services and also build up barriers that I mentioned in point 2 to prevent future catastrophes. I would also provide better houses.
Nick Agusta
ReplyDelete1st peiod
1) These horrific monsoons that happened in Pakistan are very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans. They both cause damaged and lost lives of innocent people, demolished homes, roads were destroyed, and people were displaced around their cities. The floods from both the hurricane and the monsoon went almost as high as some buildings and homes, there were water marks to show that line of the water of the floods.
2) I would use better building structures for the houses. Usually it is just used at a shelter, not a place to live for extended periods of time without repair. Also, a natural barrier of soil and dirt could be built and the river redirected to decrease flood risk.
3) If I were leader, I would definitely help and put out some teams of people to clean it up. Also call for volunteers to help clean up, or even pay people to help clean up.
Avery Scope-Crafts
ReplyDeleteP.1
1) The wet monsoons can be compared to Hurricanes like Katrina. Although these monsoons don’t cause as many deaths as major hurricanes (Katrina cause over 1,800 and this recent wet monsoon cause 422), they still affect many things. Both of them damage houses to the extent where no repair would help. Many people who are innocent are dead, and many people now have no source of income because there cash crops were killed by the floods. In a way though, New Orleans is by far more well of than Pakistan. New Orleans has much more money and more support than Pakistan, which is a poor, agriculture country.
2) Pakistan cannot do a lot about the problem they are facing. Most of that reason is due to lack of money. But, a few things will help. Like in the ancient past, they could have irrigation ditches, just more advanced. Aside from their crops not flooding, they would have water for times when it’s not raining often. A more modern tactic they could use is raised houses, like they have at the beach. At least then maybe the houses wouldn’t get flooded as bad.
3) If I was in charge Pakistan would have much more relief. First off, I would look for volunteers to go there to rebuild houses and plant crops. If there weren’t enough volunteers, I would then hire people to do it. This would also help the American Society. I would also have shelters set up there for the people while their house was being rebuilt. These shelters would have places to sleep and food to eat for the needy. Along with the shelters, I would set up tents and buildings where doctors would volunteer to work at. Many people were hurt by the monsoons, and this would help them make a full recovery.
The recent tragedy in Pakistan is similar to Hurricane Katrina. Both storms caused major flooding and lots of damage was caused by water. There are some differences, location is one, but the other is that in Pakistan, it happened all over the country. But hurricane Katrina only caused major damage in New Orleans. During hurricane Katrina and in Pakistan, lives were lost, people went missing and thousands more were displaced by the flooding. Houses were damaged and crops were destroyed. Since Pakistan is a developing country, the floods have hurt them more, and left their people with no food, water, help or shelter. These disasters have also economically hurt the places struck, costing lots to repair the damage.
ReplyDeleteDams and levees could be used in Pakistan to prevent some of the flooding. They could attempt to live on higher ground or raise their houses especially if they are in an area prone to flooding. Villagers could help their farms and their safety by building irrigation systems or drainage systems.
If I were in a leadership role during this natural disaster, I would be sure that there is aid everywhere the flooding occurred. I would make sure everyone affected by the floods have food, water and shelter. Then I would send people to help with the rebuilding process and get flood prevention systems in place, such as irrigation or dams.
Carly LeMoine
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
Compared to Hurricanes in New Orleans the Pakistan floods aren’t nearly as bad. In New Orleans during hurricane Katrina between 80 and 90 percent of the citizens were evacuated safely, 1464 people died and many people were injured. In New Orleans, some areas were up to 15 feet of water. This was much worst then the Pakistan flood where 422 people died and around 3,000 were injured. Even though Pakistan had less deaths and injuries, they didn’t have as many people coming to help evacuate. In Pakistan, people could try to mark what time of year the floods normally come and evacuate right before the estimated time. Another thing they could do after tracking what time of year the come is start to prepare things that will help keep you alive when the floods come. If I was placed in the leadership role I would make sure that I sent people to try to help, but I would also try to find the safest way for them to help. If I didn’t send any help and then I found out that there were people I could have saved I would have felt horrible.
Jacob Engel
ReplyDeleteperiod 7
I think that Hurricane Katrina and the monsoons are comparable. Both caused massive flooding, and caused many to die. Also, both of these harmed a lot of poor people. The monsoons has and will harm poor farmers living in remote villages, and Hurricane Katrina harmed a lot of inner city people, like the Lower 9th ward. Hurricane Katrina probably directly caused more deaths, but the monsoons might eventually raise the death toll because of all the farmers whose crops are and will be ruined.
I think that the most practical and easiest solution is to build dams around the crops and fields. This will not only protect crops from floods, but will also capture moisture in the air or when it rains, but not floods. Also, the farmers could try to put their crops on an artificial mound, so the rain can run off and not flood the crops. Also, people could build dams around houses, or put their holmes on elevated platforms, like at the beach.
If I were the head of the Pakistani government, I would have already tried to give aid to the people who were affected. I think that this one is ano brainer.
Kunal Lodaya
ReplyDelete1st period
Hurricane Katrina and the monsoons in Pakistan bear many similarities. Both caused far too much suffering and death among the poor. The property damage to buildings and houses also brought additional problems to deal with. The Pakistani people may also not receive the aid that the people of New Orleans did, as sadly, such a story would not reach as much of the public. However, both natural disasters should bring empathy and support for the victims who are affected.
A few solutions seem to be the most resourceful and helpful. Building systems of levees and dams would definitely help deter flooding and water damage to crops. Moving farms to areas with less rainfall, and therefore less chance of such a catastrophe, could also be a possible path.
If I were given a leadership role, the first issue would be to compensate and aid the many people whose lives were negatively affected by the storm. Next, I would take measures to ensure that such a calamity could be mitigated in the future.
Both of these areas have suffered repeated storms and flooding, however it seems like the recent monsoons of Pakistan have affected more people throughout the country. More people died in the Hurricane Katrina than in the recent flood in Pakistan but if you add up all the flooding incidences in recent years there, then more have died in Pakistan and millions more have been displaced and injured. In New Orleans, some of the worst structural damage was caused when the levies broke due to flooding. Many homes were washed away during the hurricane and then afterwards with the resulting flood. In Pakistan more than 80% of their crops were destroyed and about a fifth of the country was submerged in water. Just like Katrina, this flooding will have long term consequences for Pakistan for many years.
ReplyDeletePakistan could invest in building levies, dams, and systems for diverting water to other places. They could build their homes on stilts and relocate villages out of known flood zones. In Holland, they developed a system of dykes to control regular flooding successfully.
As a leader, I would call on the nations of the world to help with disaster relief from organizations like the Red Cross, the United Nations, and Doctors without Borders. My first priority would be to get food and medical assistance to those in the flooded areas. I would call on the national army to help move people to safer places and distribute aid. Finally, I would try to pass new laws and bills that will prepare Pakistan for future floods.
Claire L.
ReplyDelete1st period
I think that in comparison, hurricane Katrina and the monsoons that have occurred recently in Pakistan are very similar in many ways. First of all, the tragedies that occurred for both took the lives of many people. But not only that, they effected the lives of people (harmed and unharmed) across the nation, and the world for that matter. When both disasters struck, they not only killed people but they left even more homeless and starving with absolutely nowhere to go. Tons and tons of houses and buildings where completely collapsed and not repairable, which was the result in all of the starved and homeless people.
If the country knows that it is prone to a certain type of natural disasters (such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis) then they need to go through great measures to insure the safety of the residents of that country. Take San Francisco for example. They know that where they live is extremely prone to earthquakes so they build their structures accordingly. They also have developed a warning system because they want to insure that less and less lives are lost every time a disaster strikes. This is exactly what Pakistan (and any other country for that matter) should do. They need to adapt and build off what they already know, so they will have good results in the end.
First of all, I would immediately have broadcasts and commercials going out to other countries for help. You would be surprised what the power of sympathy can really do. Second, I would start at the places that need help the most, and work my way outwards (aid wise). Then I would begin to educate the people on how to prepare for when this happens again. The more we are prepared, the less panicked the country will be after the fact.
I think that in comparison, hurricane Katrina and the monsoons that have occurred recently in Pakistan are very similar in many ways. First of all, the tragedies that occurred for both took the lives of many people. But not only that, they effected the lives of people (harmed and unharmed) across the nation, and the world for that matter. When both disasters struck, they not only killed people but they left even more homeless and starving with absolutely nowhere to go. Tons and tons of houses and buildings where completely collapsed and not repairable, which was the result in all of the starved and homeless people.
ReplyDeleteIf the country knows that it is prone to a certain type of natural disasters (such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis) then they need to go through great measures to insure the safety of the residents of that country. Take San Francisco for example. They know that where they live is extremely prone to earthquakes so they build their structures accordingly. They also have developed a warning system because they want to insure that less and less lives are lost every time a disaster strikes. This is exactly what Pakistan (and any other country for that matter) should do. They need to adapt and build off what they already know, so they will have good results in the end.
First of all, I would immediately have broadcasts and commercials going out to other countries for help. You would be surprised what the power of sympathy can really do. Second, I would start at the places that need help the most, and work my way outwards (aid wise). Then I would begin to educate the people on how to prepare for when this happens again. The more we are prepared, the less panicked the country will be after the fact.
Blake Johnson
ReplyDelete2nd period
10/5/2012
There are many similarities between the monsoons in Pakistan and Hurricane Katrina that occurred in New Orleans. Some of these include the destruction of homes/villages and the loss of life. Both of these occurred in each situation. Other examples include the lack of aid provided by the governments and the loss of important land.
One measure that Pakistan’s people can take to help secure better structural defenses is building strong levies like in New Orleans. It is very important though that they are built strongly and are long lasting so that they are not destroyed, like Hurricane Katrina. They could also build their houses to withstand these yearly monsoons. Finally they could have more advanced drainage systems like in ancient Indus Valley civilizations that would help minimize the effect of these monsoons.
I would immediately send in aid if I was a ruler. If this kind of thing was happening and I was in power it would be my top priority to help these people. I would send in troops to help people get away from the area. Also I would send food, water, and other essentials to help the now homeless people. Finally after the monsoons were over, I would keep troops and voluntaries in the area to help the victims rebuild houses and rebuild their lives.
Julianna Turner
ReplyDeleteOctober 4, 2012
World History, 2
Current Event 4
Both disasters share similarities but are also very different. Both storms had disastrous effects on the people who were in its path. Many were killed, and even more were injured. Thousands lost their homes, leaving them with nothing and digging them deeper into the hole of financial distress. In Pakistan, the flooding caused loss of crop, their main food source. These disasters are also very different. The people of Louisiana live in an area with frequent hurricanes. Most of the people there knew the hurricane was coming and what to expect. Also, the homes there are more structurally sound, build with the thought of a hurricane in mind. The people of Pakistan were jolted from their normal lives by the sound of pounding rain and massive flooding. Their crops and houses were destroyed, leaving them hungry, homeless and some injured. Also, the people have not received government aid, while in Louisiana the Government attempted to help to some degree.
There are many things to do in Pakistan which could strengthen the country in case of another monsoon. Dams or flood gates (especially around their crops) would be most efficient, preventing flooding and also providing a water source. Houses must be built on higher elevations if possible but definitely to withstand strong winds and heavy flooding. Also planting an excess of trees or bushes would help to soak up some water from the soil and would also enrich the ecosystems in the area. A drainage system must be developed, ensuring that the stagnant waters will have a place to flow.
If I were placed as a leader in this time, I would do my best to provide medical attention to the people. I would have to send out search and rescue teams, as well as relief in the forms of food, shelter, clothes, clean water, etc. I would also do my best to develop strategies to ensure a safer environment if this were to happen again. Entire villages would have to be rebuilt, as well as instituting jobs so the people could regain their footing financially.
Sydney Jones-Period 9
ReplyDeleteThe monsoons affecting Pakistan are more consistent it seems, than the hurricanes that affect New Orleans. Where New Orleans gets hit hard and devastated by hurricane every few years in pakistan the damage and devastation happens yearly, also villages in Pakistan have a harder time rebuilding and regrouping, ecspecially when they know it will happen again. In Pakistan the damage is widespread, monsoons flood half the country so it makes it harder to rebuild and to rescue the hurt and the damaged villages. Whereas in America it is only a small portion of the country so it is very easy for the rest of the country to provide help to those who need it.
The people of Pakistan could build dams to protect villages and to control where the water flooded, like the hoover dam which only lets out a fraction of the water it stops up. Or they could builds levees or trenches around the villages as New Orleans does. If I was a government official during a time when one-fifth of the country is flooded I would be overwhelmed because of all the people in need of assistance, but i would still try and deploy as many rescuers and rescue packs as possible. I would first try and get as many people rescued and out of danger as possible and would work on providing them with food before I would start on rebuilding projects. These would be started after flooding was back down and I would also enforce new building methods of villages to stop them from getting destroyed when flooding occurs.
ReplyDeleteShomya Mitra
Honors World History, 5th Period
10/3/12
I think these floods in Pakistan are very similar to the hurricanes of New Orleans. Both these disasters destroyed many crops - 4.5 million acres in the case of Pakistan. Also, these disasters both have many effects. Hurricane Katrina affected so much property and land that people are still repairing the damage 7 years later! In Pakistan, an estimated 4.7 million people have been affected by being driven out of their homes, losing their farmland, or other factors. So, definitely these floods are very similar to the events in New Orleans.
The biggest thing the citizens of Pakistan can do to prevent this kind of calamity is probably to build flood walls. This is the cheapest way to fight the possibility of a flood and also the most practical. Also, the authorities could put in place an evacuation plan so the amount of injuries and deaths can lessen, and I think this would be very effective. These plans are common in the US, especially in coastal communities. You can also place rocks on the banks of a river to help stop the erosion of the soil.
If I were an official in a flood-plagued area, I would definitely try to give aid to the occupants of the area. They would be living with much trauma and would need help escaping and being all right after possibly losing their homes. I think refusing monetary aid to people who are in such dire need as this of help is very cold and inhumane.
Shamim Zarei
ReplyDelete2nd period
The hurricanes in New Orleans and the floods and monsoon in Pakistan are very similar because they both caused many people to lose their homes, lose their lives, become injured, cause them to move away, and made them move to other countries or states. The hurricanes and monsoons caused floods and greatly damaged the cities. The people in Pakistan lost all their crops which are their main source of food. The people in New Orleans got Government help, but the people in Pakistan didn’t.
I think residents of Pakistan should build their homes and plant their crops on higher ground because the flood water might not reach it and they have a better chance of not losing their lives, homes, and crops. They should also build irrigation systems like dams that will help keep their country from getting devastating floods. Structuring their homes differently will help their homes not be destroyed as easily and that will help more people survive the monsoons.
If I was the governor of Pakistan I would definitely help out because many children and parents are starving and need my help, I would provide them with some food and help fix their homes so they can have good shelter. I would send out workers to help fix their farms and grow their crops so they won’t die.
Danielle Reviere
ReplyDelete5th period
The monsoons that have affected Pakistan are similar to the multiple hurricanes which have happened to New Orleans in that the natural disasters have killed and injured hundreds of people. But the difference between the flooding in Pakistan and the hurricanes in New Orleans is that the flooding in Pakistan is more consistent and it affects a greater more rural area. Plus New Orleans typically has more warning and has more protection against events like this than Pakistan does. Some of the things that would help with the flooding are putting buildings on stilts ,on higher ground, or making the foundations raise higher of the ground( like they did in the Indus Valley Civilization) , building dams, and building trenches or something like a trench to catch the water and reroute it. Even though I would be in shock if I were a government official, I would immediately have given the people aid. Then I would focus on the rebuilding and in the process of rebuilding I would set new codes for the buildings. For example they would have to be raised of the ground. Also I would have them build dams and trenches to hold and reroute the water.
simon dunson
ReplyDeleteperiod 7
The monsoons in pakistan are very similar to hurricanes such as katrina. They both leave millions without homes or sources of income, without food, without hope. In Pakistan though these floods occur every year and even though they may not kill as many people they are more frequent. In order to protect themselves I think that the people of Pakistan should build a system of levies in order to prevent flooding and then they could use the excess water as irrrigation. If i was in a leadership role i would tell people not to panic or to give up hope. Then i would send out the military and the national guard so they could offer help and support to all of the people in need.
Julie Park
ReplyDelete1st Period
I see that both natural disasters have forced people to relocate for a while if they want to survive. People have lost friends, family, and homes. Buildings have been destroyed either by crazy winds and rain fall, or just flooding that eventually destroyed the foundations. Crops are submerged in water so they’re ruined and so their source of food has been cut off. To help with yearly floods, they could create some kind of irrigation system that is put to use whenever it is monsoon season. Like the ancient Egyptians, they could create canals that capture water and then release water into the crop fields whenever they need water.
If I was in a leadership position and I could help these villagers, I would. They’re community members and they deserve our help. If I helped them now, maybe they would help me later on in life, this being an example of karma. It would also be morally right to help these people who have lost loved ones to a natural disaster. The fact that no government officials have come to help is sad, and what is even sadder is that a news crew from America’s CNN got there before any government officials. So wouldn’t it make the government look better if they had people helping out to rebuild this village while it was being broadcast to America?
The hurricanes in New Orleans and the monsoons in Pakistan are similar in many ways. Both caused the death of people and the injury of many other people. Also, both the monsoons and the hurricanes caused people to have to leave their houses. Another similarity is that they caused a lot of structural damage. However, there is one main difference, and this is the location that these things occurred at.
ReplyDeleteThere are a couple of things that could be done to have a better defense against the yearly floods in Pakistan. One of them would be building flood gates. In Tokyo, Japan flood gates were also made to protect the people there from typhoons. Houses could also be built on higher ground to ensure that they won’t get flooded. The houses could also be built on stilts to prevent flooding. These are some of the things that can be done to create a better defense against yearly floods in Pakistan.
If I were in a leadership position at that moment, I would take action. If there is footage of people complaining that you, as a leader, aren’t helping enough, then you should definitely take action. I would try to help restore the houses affected by the flood, and make sure that everyone that needed aid would be able to get it. Overall, if I were in that position I would try to make sure that people didn’t think they weren’t getting any help from the government.
1. Many people died in the floods like in Katrina. Also the injuries and crop destruction. In fact,while it was worse it played out tamer. While the flood into New Orleans was sudden, Pakistans floods happened slower, since no dams burst.
ReplyDelete2. Firstly they could have a set of levees like Ancient Egypt. However, this would be dangerous if the dams ever burst as in New Orleans. Houses should be built on brick ground as in Ancient Egypt, and on stilts like the beach. That way Monsoon waters would have to rise higher to reach living areas. Farms would also have to be placed on stilts. They could build higher on hills like castles in the midieval ages were for defense, but Pakistan isnt very hilly and there wouldnt be enough room. There are too many different problems for any one solution.
3.I would firstly petition the United Nations for aid. Its their job to provide humanitarian support. Immediately after I would send boats into the deeply flooded areas to pull people out. There would also be food boats. Then I would authorize a national house boat building fashion. That way if the waters rose, the cities would just float too. House boats ftw!
Alex Parks
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
The monsoons are very similar to hurricanes like hurricane Katrina because they both leave people stranded without homes. They both leave people without homes in areas overcrowded with other survivors. It is the perfect situation for diseases to spread causing death. More similar things between them is that they destroy roads, buildings, crops, and human life.
I would use better building structures for the houses. Usually it is just used at a shelter, not a place to live for extended periods of time without repair. Also, a natural barrier of soil and dirt could be built and the river redirected to decrease flood risk.
If I were leader, I would definitely help and put out some teams of people to clean it up. Also call for volunteers to help clean up, or even pay people to help clean up.
Abby Thomas
ReplyDelete5th period
1. In comparison to the notable hurricanes of New Orleans, what similarities (i.e. displacement of villagers, structural damages, loss of life/crops/resources, injuries, etc.) can be drawn to compare with the recent monsoons which have occurred in Pakistan?
The hurricanes of New Orleans and the monsoons in Pakistan have had a very similar effect on the public. They both have lost homes and are struggling to rebuild them. Lives were lost in these natural disasters and nothing has been done about it and it is tragic to know that something like that happens. They have both lost major food supply for their towns and they have to wait a long time for it to be replanted and regrown. Even injuries have occurred and nothing has been done about it to help them to get better.
2. Geographically speaking, what might be possible measures or solutions the residents of Pakistan can take to perhaps secure a better structurally sound defense against the continuum of yearly floods? Provide examples of methods used by other places past and present.
They could build their houses on higher ground to keep the water out. It would prevent their houses from being washed away/ water damaged and they’d save a lot of time and money on rebuilding things. They could also build a mud brick platform like the Harappan Civilization to keep even more of the flooding out.
3.The video features footage of the catastrophic disaster and reports that the residents have not received any aid/help or the solicitation from any government officials. How would you respond to such a calamity if you were placed in a leadership role at this time?
I would respond by supplying specific houses for them to go to that are at a higher elevation than the flood so that they could make it to safety and get the care that they need. I’d supply them with food and hospitality. I would even create specific funds for them to help pay to rebuild the houses they lost and to help regain anything they lost.
Honestly what happened in Pakistan was so much worse than hurricane Katrina also that happens nearly every year the two events ca barely be compared. I guess that if you think about it though the monsoons are just terrible hurricanes that happen at least once every year.
ReplyDeleteThey possibly could move there homes to higher elevation so that flooding would be less likely. They also could create ditches and such to help navigate the water away from the cities.
I honestly have no idea how I would have reacted to that. There really aren't any ways to prevent this event but it would just be such a hard thing to digest. But I would probably try to get everyone gathered toghether that was still alive and get them to search for those still missing if they are able bodied.
CISEM KARACA
ReplyDelete5TH period
CURRENT EVENT #4
Monsoons cause seasonal changes in wind and rain making droughts and floods a huge problem each year in Pakistan. Once again they have been unfortunate enough to suffer though another Monsoon.Hurricane Katrina is similar to this situation because of the end result. People are left in the ruins without their homes and do not have shelter. The damage done by these natural disasters leave the local people in a hard situation, they don’t have food or shelter and help is not delivered fast enough. Both monsoons and hurricanes can case great damage to the communities by destroying structures of buildings and washing away crops. These lead to deaths and diseases making help urgent.
Instead of building homes on the ground, they should consider building homes on stilts to keep them from being washed away. They might also consider using a more water proof material to build the homes like concrete blocks rather than mud bricks. This may improve the stability of the structure. These are all methods used in costal regions to strengthen safety of the homes during hurricanes. Although it does not promise the structural support forever it might help minimize damage done by the monsoons.
If I were a leader in that area I would organize a charity where people would donate food, clothes, and money to help benefit the people who lost their homes in the monsoons. I would also run a volunteer group so that the people who need help could get medical attention and assistance faster. In this video it shows the damage done to the community and to their crops, if I were in their situation I would want help as soon as possible. Donations and Volunteers would benefit those in need of food and shelter.
Nikki Thai
ReplyDelete1st Period
1.) The monsoons in Pakistan and hurricanes in New Orleans are both very similar. They both caused massive flooding, and the death of many. Although they both cause much damage, hurricanes are much more expected and predictable than the monsoons in Pakistan. Therefore New Orleans is able to prepare for it, while Pakistan has yet to receive the funds to prepare themselves.
2.) I think they could create some sort of drainage system or pathway that allows the water to flow towards a certain direction. The drainage system can be made of the soil and trees and other materials in nature to refrain from costly materials.
3.) If I were to lead I would try to first supply everyone with necessities such as food, water, and shelter, if possible. Then I would move the elders, children, injured, and ill to safety first. And if there is room, I would try to move as many civilians as I can.
Takoda Ren
ReplyDelete10/4/12
2nd
I think that the monsoons are similar to the hurricanes because lots of people in both areas lost their lives from drowning. In New Orleans great amounts of people had to evacuate or be evacuated before and during the hurricanes, and in Pakistan a large number of people also had to evacuate or else die. The Pakistan monsoons damaged lots of structures, in New Orleans houses and levees were destroyed. There are lots of similarities because a wet monsoon wind is very similar to a hurricane.
Pakistan could just have the people move up shore, or they could build levees and flood walls to prevent flooding. They could also create better drainage systems so that the streets and crops wouldn’t be completely flooded in the event of a monsoon. They could also resort to the traditional sand bags.
It would definitely depend on how much money you had. The Pakistan official’s not giving aid is partly their fault, but there needs to be more people donating money and other resources so that the Pakistan government can actually do something. If I were in rule over a country such as this during this type of period, I would definitely send some sort of outreach to the stranded people, and send more specific care if there was funding.
I think the monsoons are very similar to what we have here. Both of them cause extensive damage, and leave people without homes or any shelter. They both cause death and suffering. They both can totally destroy a place, and cause so many issues for a nation.
ReplyDeleteThey should use better ways to protect where ever is being attacked by the storm by building better homes with better materials, and making natural barriers so the land does not flood as easily. They could protect crops and live stock by building some type of irrigation system or something where the water won't just flood everything.
I would definitely protect my nation if I was a leader by starting new government programs to create barriers and levis for places that can't afford them.
Ashley Yang
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
2nd Period
1. There are many similarities between the monsoons of Pakistan and the hurricanes that occur in New Orleans, especially those that are severe like Hurricane Katrina. In both events, people were killed and injured and houses and homes were destroyed. People have nowhere to stay and floods occur in both situations. Resources were also lost in Pakistan the people lost all of their crops and their source of food.
2. The people of Pakistan can move their homes to a land of higher elevation so that the floods may not destroy their houses next time, but I think it’s much harder because these people need to find farmable land for food. It could be that crops are more abundant if they farm on lower elevations so being able to harvest crops could affect where they settle. They could use drainage systems and build levees, which were used by the Sumerians.
3. I think it is terrible that these people haven’t gotten any help yet. They relied on their crops for food and now their crops have been washed away and these people are starving. Many of the families have children and their children have no food and no shelter. I would want to send out help to all the victims and to send food. It would be great to relocate them to some sort of shelter until they can rebuild houses.
Sam Nielsen
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
The flooding in Pakistan is very similar to the devastation caused by hurricane Katrina. Some obvious differences include location and what type of people were affected. I believe that the flooding in Pakistan is even worse than hurricane Katrina because the people affected by it were dreadfully hurt. Not only did many of them lose their homes, they also lost a large amount of farmland and livestock. These are things that many people in Pakistan rely on for everyday life. America's government also had more ability to deal with our disaster than Pakistan's government has with their's.
One solution may be to build large dikes to hold back the water flow in areas below sea level. For example, in the Netherlands (which is below sea level) they have many dikes to hold back the sea. It may also be a good idea to install an effective drainage system through out the country that would at least limit minor flooding. The way they build houses could make a difference as well. Having them be elevated on stilts of some kind could limit the damage done to them. This has been used in many coastal regions of our world.
I would definitely make minimizing the damage done by this disaster a priority. Not only to limit the amount of damage done to the economy but also to keep a good reputation. A leader who doesn't properly take care of his/her people will lose his/her people's trust. This could result in riots and even civil war in some nations of our world. One must also take into account that people's lives are at stake and something must be done for them.
Ian Hufford
ReplyDeleteCurrent Event – Indus Valley floods
P.1
The recent monsoon in Pakistan and the flooding that followed has affected almost 5 million people. This tragedy is comparable to hurricane Katrina, but not to the same scale as hurricane Katrina, that affected over 15 million people. However, both caused great damage, both in lives taken, and in damage to crops and buildings. I think that all places that experience flooding on a regular basis should have a well-organized system of dams, floodways, lakes, and evacuation plans to decrease loss of life. This would minimize damage to crops from flooding, and cause the monsoon to have a smaller negative effect on people’s lives.
Despite our differences with Pakistan, I think it is important to important to come to the aid of anyone who needs help. It is important to take the high road and help save the lives and livelihood of people who are affected by the flooding. I was very surprised by the lack of aid that the US is providing.
If I were in charge, I would communicate with the Pakistani government, and give then whatever resources they need to help the people through the flooding. I would hope the if the positions were reversed, they would come to our aid and help us out. All and all, the monsoon is a horrible tragedy that has affected many lives, and taken many others. However, with the right flood protection and disaster plans, as well as aid if needed, the effect on peoples life can be minimal.
Emma Baldwin
ReplyDelete10.4.12
World History, Period 7
1. Many similarities can be drawn between the Pakistani monsoons and the devastating hurricanes of New Orleans. As far as the setting goes, both are in areas that have a history of flooding, yet the extreme ruin came as a surprise. In both situations, people were displaced from their homes, and many were injured or even killed. Both events ruined many crops, and in Katrina’s case oil production and refining.
2. In order to prevent more damage from future annual floods, residents of Pakistan could build elevated houses, or at least ones with stronger foundations. Residents could also consider moving to higher lands. As far as the farming of cash crops goes, which is a significant part of many Pakistani’s lifestyles, improved irrigation systems could be implemented. Levees and drainage ditches are example of such strategies: even the ancient Sumerians had a system to deal with the floods.
3. If I was placed in a leadership role at this time, the first thing I would do would be to visit the relief centers. Helping there would set an example for what other people do, while at the same time drawing attention to the crisis. I would try to attract attention and help from other countries, but to do so I would have to create a rough plan so that countries you know that their help would not go to waste. Since the floods are a yearly occasion, some people might be reluctant to help because they figure that the same event will just happen again and they will be expected to assist.
Max Weintraub
ReplyDeletePeriod2
A single monsoon is not, by itself, is not worse than hurricane Katrina which had almost 2,000 fatalities. but do to the fact that these occur every year, with some years being worse than others, I think makes it worse. Hurricane Katrina caused over $100,000,000 in damage, but the monsoons this year have destroyed all of the farmland in the main food producing area of Pakistan. While this may not seem even they are both equally devastating and because of the floods, many people in Pakistan could die of starvation.
I have two methods for preventing flooding, both of which are being used in New Orleans to better prepare the city for another Katrina-strength storm. One is to dredge the Indus river, it is one of the main causes of flooding, allowing more water to flow through and thus reducing the chance of flooding. The other is building levies around low lying areas like farmland.
The first thing I would do if I were in charge is send as much food a possible because all of the farmland had flooded. Then I would send in temporary shelter for people who's house had been destroyed. And finally once the water had drained I would send in teams to help clean up and rebuild.
Markale Cordova
ReplyDelete10/4/12
5th period
1) The monsoons are very similar to the hurricane here in our country. I mean both cause a lot of damage to cities and such; also many people died form both areas; which cause many to be homeless or not any shelter.
2) They people would need lots of protection from these monsoons from happening. Like make the homes more protective (meaning: stronger and safer), create barriers for themselves from these floods so less may come then usual (crops, trade, resources).
3) If I was a leader for my nation; I want to be the best at what I do and that would be to help and protect my people. I would like to have a strong government that would do well with the people by creating protections towards them.
Claire Kern
ReplyDeletePd. 7
There are many similarities between the hurricanes in New Orleans and the monsoons in Pakistan. There was lots of flooding in both areas as well as major damage to homes, and the people living there. Many innocent people died because of the flooding in Pakistan, (over 400 people) and many died after the hurricanes that have hit New Orleans. There has also been loss of crops, wiping out peoples main food source and land.
The people of Pakistan should find a solution to ensure structural stability during the yearly floods. Many people today already use types of irrigation systems and drainage systems to keep their homes and themselves safe against the floods. People in Pakistan can also use their geographic features to their benefit. They could move to higher ground to prevent their homes from flooding, say on top of a hill. This would make a lot of progress and there would be less damage at the end of the rains.
If I was in a leadership role in a time of disaster, I would make sure the people were in good hands. Government officials would be sent out right away, offering aid to the injured and sick. Also I would send people to rebuild homes as well as send food because of their loss of crops. After a calamity, people deserve help, the government needs to step in right away and make sure the people are getting necessary treatment and aid.
Saane Chamberlin-Finau
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
10-4-12
1) I think that the flooding is defiantly similar to the harsh hurricanes that have hit New Orleans in the past. They have both left many people homes and lives destroyed. People are up to their wast in water filled with harmful debris and possibe snakes and animals. Although, I do infect think that what they have is worse then what he have experienced. They seem to have less resources to help them to bring their lives back together like we did. I am not saying that we had a lot, but we certainly had more then they do.
2) I think that they can create a stronger irrigation system, it wouldn't need to keep back all the water, but to minimize the amounts to a more maintainable about. The ancient sumers created an irrigation system to help them. If you to create a larger, stronger irrigation ten the flooding could be brought down to a more maintainable amour that is easier for them to clean and remove
3) I think that if i was a leader nib this situation I would put the reconstruction of this area at the highest priority. They are living people with families and friends that clearly need help. You cant just ignore them, they need help and if you were leader you have a responsibility to care and help these people in what ever way you can.
Erica Johnson
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
1. In comparison to the recent hurricanes in New Orleans, the monsoons in Pakistan are very similar, in the way that they have affected the villages and citizens themselves. Not only were many people killed and injured, but also at a loss for food, homes (or any shelter for that matter), and permanent structural damage of the village as a whole.
2. To help protect from future monsoons and/or hurricanes and other harsh weather conditions, people could elevate farming areas and houses. They could also build houses that would be able to withstand more harsh weather, since the more recent ones have definitely not been able to hold up well! As for the crops, a more complex or effective irrigation would definitely benefit the crops well-being. They could also use levees and drainage systems, which were used by other past civilizations.
3. To think that the government in Pakistan is not doing all they can to help the suffering from monsoons is just not ok. I think if I was in charge of all of this, I would try to help the victims in many different ways. First, get them shelter, food and water. Also to give aid to the injured, and establish search parties to find the missing people. After people would be settled, it would probably be a good idea to try to start rebuilding the villages and get people back to work. That way everybody can get back to their normal lives, instead of mourning in the destruction and turmoil of past disasters.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSarah Taekman
ReplyDelete10-4-12
Period 5
Pakistan has recently been flooded by monsoons, ruining crops, wrecking homes, scattering survivors, and causing havoc. And the worst part? This happens yearly. One place with a similar situation is New Orleans, Louisiana. New Orleans is ravaged by hurricanes, a particularly bad one occurring every two years. Though defenses have been built up to fight these natural disasters in both areas, they still cannot hold back the flood. A large portion of Pakistan is almost annually flooded, usually killing about 400 people and injuring thousands. In one of the most famous hurricanes of New Orleans’s history, Hurricane Katrina, about 1,464 people were reported to have died. Both areas’ main sources of income are affected by the storm patterns. The flooding in Pakistan kills the crops, and since New Orleans is a port city, ships carrying goods or fish find it extremely difficult to get into the port. The structures and buildings of the regions tend to be destroyed or in bad damage due to the weather. I can’t even imagine the amount of money they put into the construction industry. New Orleans and Pakistan are both areas with unpredictable, deadly weather, which leaves the people and the land devastated.
Pakistan has used walls to try to hold back the floodwaters and break up to currents, but mainly in vain. One method they could use to at least reduce the impact of the flooding would be to plant trees that could further break up the powerful currents. Other countries have done this, such as Bangladesh, and along Sacramento River in our very own California. As well as blocking the water’s path, they can also be used to pay for damages resulting from the floods. Wood, fruits, and more can be sold for needed cash.
I would definitely not want to be in a position of power right now in Pakistan. Millions of people need help, and it would be my job to save as many of them as I could. I would send out helicopter crews to scout for survivors on rooftops, climbing out of the water, stranded without supplies, etc. If people are trapped, supplies such as food and water would be sent down to them, and they would have to wait for the flooding to recede, because endangering the life of part of the rescue team would mean even more deaths, and less people to help free others. Once the water levels die down a little, I would send out ground crews to search the wreckage for possible survivors, remaining crops, and yes, even corpses. I think the worst part of doing this job is knowing that it happens annually, and the same task will have to be done next year.
The terrible monsoons in Pakistan is very much like Hurricane Irene that hit New Orleans not too long ago. Both of these events have been very bad for both Pakistan and also New Orleans. They left many if not most of the people without homes and hungry. Most if not all the crops were wiped out in both places because of all of the flooding. People in both areas lost their lives and family’s where destroyed. About the only difference in both places are the location and in Pakistan there was a monsoon and in New Orleans where was a hurricane.
ReplyDeleteGeographically speaking there is not much that the people of Pakistan can do with their home to try to protect them. They might be able to move to places that do not flood so easily, but not everyone can do that. They could try to build drainage ditches and that would help but I do not think that it would really solve the big problem. They could try to build things like walls and dams but unless they are built with good parts they really do know good.
The government of Pakistan not helping the people of Pakistan is crazy. This is terrible that they have not helped the people with food, water, and metical help. It is a matter of life and death for the people in these areas and if they don’t get help when they need it there is a good chance that they could die. If I was in power in Pakistan I would send as much stuff as I could to the people in need. They may not be able to give as much as the United States could but they could defiantly give something to help.
Harrison Young
ReplyDelete10/4/12
7th Prd
1) This monsoon is much like New Orleans because many of the people had nowhere to go. The ones that had no homes finally went to the Saints Superdome in New Orleans to live until they weren't homeless anymore. Also no government showed up for Katrina and helped so the people of the country helped out and there were tons of casualties. If you were injured or sick there was not that much help so they weren't off well.
2) To help against flooding the best way is to create a drainage system and flood gates like the ancient civilizations. This would allow less floods and would also fertilize the crops so that they have food and extra water. They must be prepared for this where it is prominent flooding because they wont be expecting it if they aren't prepared.
3) As a leader of the country I would tell everyone to help as much as they can first and i would reach out to the places effected by the calamity. I would help raise money for funds going towards helping the victims and would buy supplies and food for people who cant get anywhere because of the monsoon.
Autumn West
ReplyDeleteWorld History
7th period
1.The monsoon in Pakistan is very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans because of many peoples displacement the lack of government aid and the more common storm related events such as famine flooding loss of person possession and family.
2. I think that they can create a stronger irrigation system, it wouldn't need to keep back all the water, but to minimize the amounts to a more maintainable about. The ancient sumers created an irrigation system to help them. If you to create a larger, stronger irrigation ten the flooding could be brought down to a more maintainable amour that is easier for them to clean and remove.
3.If I was a leader for my nation; I want to be the best at what I do and that would be to help and protect my people. I would like to have a strong government that would do well with the people by creating protections towards them
Connor Korfas
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
Period 1
I feel that these current monsoons that have taken place in Pakistan are quite similar to hurricanes that took place in New Orleans. Both of these event killed hundreds of people and have left thousands homeless. Thousands of building were destroyed in both disasters. From the monsoons 4.3 million acres of farmland were destroyed which has been estimated to have destroyed 80% of Pakistan’s cash crops. Similar to how when hurricane Irene hit it messed with a lot of the shrimp beds in New Orleans, which hurt Louisiana's economy. The fishing industry in New Orleans makes up a lot Louisiana’s economy similar to how agriculture makes up a lot of Pakistan's economy. With this being said I also feel that these two event are also quite different. These monsoons are seasonal and to some extent can be expected while with hurricane Irene there really was no way to know it was coming. I also feel that the disaster relief in the US is substantially better than in Pakistan.
I feel that making irrigation ditches and channels could be an effective solution to Pakistan problem. This method would be similar to the ancient Egyptian solution for the Nile flooding problem, and as far as I know it worked for them. The water obtained from these methods could be also used for irrigation for the crops. Another method that could be used was elevating the major structures on platforms of some kind. This was similar to the solution the Indus valley civilizations used for their flooding problems. I feel that if these measures were taken the devastation from the seasonal monsoons would be decreased.
If I were in the situation and I was in power I would first off contact another country and request for help or aid of some kind. With the help of the other country or organization I would set of relief centers all around the affected areas. These relief center would provide medical attention, food, and help set up temporary living spaces. After these the affected areas were taken care of I would then begin to focus on establishing permanent living quarters. After these were taken care of I would begin to take care of the fields that were destroyed. This would begin to revive the economy. Over time I feel this plan would restore Pakistan to it’s former status.
Hanna Siekierski
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
Period 1
There are several similarities between the recent monsoons in Pakistan and the notable hurricanes of New Orleans. First of all monsoons and hurricanes are both very tragic and harmful natural disasters. In both events there has been the loss of crops, resources, and homes. Not only has there been the loss of those more replaceable things, but both death and injuries were inflicted to the villagers and the citizens. These natural disasters both brought floods along with them. These floods are dangerous as well as the high winds that are created. Both the hurricanes, Isaac and Katrina, and the monsoon floods have damaged their respective places more than once. Both have resulted in displacement of people and left them without homes. Since Pakistan isn’t as developed as a country, the floods have hurt them more, and left their people with no food, water, help or shelter. These disasters have also economically hurt the places they've struck, creating huge costs to repair the damage.
Geographically speaking, there are possible solutions that the residents of Pakistan can take to make an attempt at a more structurally secure defense against the continuum of yearly floods could be flood gates. Also they could build their houses up higher from the ground, just like the houses near the beach or in hurricane zones, so the water could pass underneath.
To prevent so much damage from the floods, Pakistan could also install irrigations systems that would keep floods from devastating the country or build dams so that the rivers would have to rise up high enough to pass over the dam. These techniques are used in many places today, including in the U.S., for example the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. Another thing Pakistan could do is make channels or other drainage systems for the river when it overflows. This could also be useful to get water to crops by way of the drainage system. This is used in ancient times by the Sumerians in Mesopotamia.
I think it is just awful that none of the disaster victims have received aid from their government. If I was in any government position when one of these catastrophic events occurred, it would be one of my top priorities that the victims are provided with any medical attention that they could need. If our government didn't have the resources to carry out this, or anything else for that matter, I would respond to that by calling rescue organizations like Red Cross. They would be able to help us in the clean-up and rebuilding of their villages. Also I would provide safe temporary homes for those who currently didn't have one.
Lillian Menkens-Weiler
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
Mr. Waters Period 5
Comparing the storms of New Orleans and the monsoons of Pakistan is quite simple, because they both result in many similar things. It is especially easy to find similarities between Hurricane Katrina and the Pakistani monsoons. For one, both produced massive casualties. The storms of New Orleans have left numerous people homeless and starving, as the monsoons of Pakistan have done for countless citizens. Both storms significantly reduced the food supply, and both were extremely devastating.
In the past, people have done many different things to deal with such devastating storms. In New Orleans, many people evacuated when they were warned of hurricanes, because they were so traumatized by Katrina. Other residents simply boarded up their homes, or “hurricane proofed,” in preparation for the storm. If the storms do strike in the same place periodically, residents of the affected Pakistani areas may want to consider moving permanently to a safer place. However, this is a very difficult thing to do, though it may be the safer choice.
It was painful to learn that these affected residents had not received assistance from the government. If I were in a position of leadership, I would certainly be very involved with the affected areas. I would provide medical support to all who needed it, and I would also send a team to help rebuild the towns that were destroyed. I would also make sure we were in close touch with these areas and I would provide care for the children if the parents needed this. I would also provide shelter for all residents while we were rebuilding. I think it is important for the government to be involved with these disasters.
Nathan Guskiewicz
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
1. The recent devastation in Pakistan is similar to the effects of Katrina on New Orleans. Just like in hurricane Katrina many people in Pakistan have been moved from their homes, there has been a lot of flooding which has affected many businesses, agriculture and infrastructure. Also people have lost their lives from monsoon rains.
2. There are a number of things that city leaders could plan to do in Pakistan to help prevent flooding from monsoons. One thing is that they could build their homes and businesses on higher grounds, or away from bodies of water that could be susceptible to flooding. Large businesses can use floodgates to help prevent flooding inside buildings. Also any new building that they build they could use materials that can withstand high winds and high water levels.
3. If I were placed in a leadership role at this time in Pakistan I would do the most I could to help. My first priority would be to help anybody injured and make sure everyone was getting food and was safe. Also I would ask for help from other organizations if I needed it. I would try to set up fundraising to help rebuild villages and cities.
Emily Chang
ReplyDelete10/04/12
Period 1
The monsoons in Pakistan are very similar to the recent hurricane that hit New Orleans. Both natural disasters wreaked havoc on the people and places that they flooded. People were left without sources of food, without homes and some people lost their lives or that of their relatives or friends.
To avoid the type of damage that occurred with this monsoon, people could live on higher ground so that they would be above the water level even in the even of extreme flooding. Also, they could create trenches and barriers to obstruct the flow of the water.
If I were in power during this type of situation, I would try to construct "safe houses" in places that are less susceptible to flooding so that if many people are left without homes, the government could help move them to somewhere safer. Another priority would to be to aid the wounded. Also, I would make sure there was a back-up source of food, so if all the crops drown, people will still have something to eat. Lastly, I would help fund reconstruction efforts to rebuild all that was lost.
Indus Valley Déjà vu?
ReplyDeleteWenbo Wang
10/4/12
Period 2
1. Hurricanes of New Orleans, largely focusing on Hurricane Katrina, had a major impact upon the people of the city and surrounding regions; injuring one thousand eight hundred people, over one hundred miles of damage, affecting the oil and forestry industries, and the evacuations of many people. Structures were damaged by the flood. This situation is similar to the monsoon floods that are occurring in Pakistan, where four hundred and twenty-two people died, cash crop supplies limited by eighty percent, three hundred and fifty thousand people were displaced, and buildings were destroyed. Limited resources, displacement, deaths, and structural damages were seen in both the outcome of the hurricane and monsoons.
2. To reduce the damage caused by floods of the wet season, people can set up drainage systems through nets and wells to catch the incoming rainwater through rain shadow zones beside the northern mountains to be used during the dry season; a method being used in India for increasing water supplies during the wet monsoon season. This can then lessen flood levels and reduce erosion. Building five feet stilts aboveground house would prevent future floods; reducing water entering their houses for people who cannot move to elevated grounds. This method is widely used back during the Bronze Age in the Alpine and Terramare region, and currently in the tropics of South America, to prevent flooding of the houses near the Amazon River.
3. With no assistance from the government officials, the people are beginning to grow hungry, struck with illnesses, and desperate for their family’s wellbeing. With flooded crop fields and houses, they hope for relief away from this circumstance. If I was placed in a leadership role at this time, I would try to contact as many hospitals and distribution groups as I can reach, and provide shelter, medications, and other supplies to improve the people’s lives who were affected by the monsoon. As for long term success of the villagers, I would invite volunteers who would help with preparing the soil for farming again; so they will have an income rate by selling cash crops and vegetable crops to the community.
Veronica Kim
ReplyDelete1st period Honors World History
10/4/2012
1) Thinking of these floods and then hurricanes past is practically deja vu; the amount of people forced from their homes, the number killed, and the many, many buildings destroyed make me think back almost immediately to 2005 when Katrina struck New Orleans and caused unbelievable damage. Along with the losses that cannot be replaced - lives, memories, families - the physical harm to houses and crops compares significantly to specific events we can still remember.
2) Although Louisiana's levees were not in the least bit helpful when Katrina washed ashore, they could be a start to Pakistan's flooding problems. Dikes, dams, floodgates, you name it, they'll most likely be key in preventing future floods and disasters such as this one. Also, a factor in Katrina's devastating impact was based around evacuation; the residents of New Orleans were not able to evacuate fast enough or early enough, and therefore found themselves trapped when the time came. Pakistan might be able to alleviate that problem (and drastically reduce death toll as well) by keeping an eye out for inclement weather and reacting accordingly.
3) I'd start by setting up various shelters for those with nowhere to go to stay, with volunteers helping to give out food and blankets, financed by fundraisers or just pleas for help. Then I'd send out a rescue team to find survivors, and put up notices every night of those found, alive or dead, so their families could know. Nature would provide aid in the form of receding floodwaters; eventually, the townspeople would be able to return to their villages, and more fundraisers would provide money to refurnish houses and buildings (however, I'd advise everyone to invest in home insurance, as that would surely make it easier). I would keep the shelters in place, though, so if a situation similar to this one happened again, the people would have a place to stay out the storm, and know that their loved ones were safe with them.
Edward Zhuang
ReplyDelete10/4/12
Period 5
The monsoons in Pakistan displayed the similar damage caused by hurricanes in New Orleans. This becomes apparent when we compare the injuries and casualties. Both brought destruction, but I believe the monsoons in Pakistan had a greater impact on the victims lives. While these monsoons will always be behind Katrina and other hurricanes when focused on the media response, the lesser known monsoons have affected the Pakistanis in a larger way. This may be due to the fact that farmland is abundant and essential for the society and economy.
Perhaps the best method to combat these monsoons is to install dams or levees of some sort. They can help regulate the water levels and ensure safety to villages. This technique has been proven effective in past history. It is said that the ancient Chinese and Egyptian civilizations used levees to some extent of success. Now, with modern technology, we can design more impressive and useful mechanisms to our advantage.
The lack of government help is disappointing. If I were in charge, the first thing I would do is make sure that everyone is safe. Once all the people are in secure locations with necessities such as food and shelter, then I would attempt to clean up the disaster. Also, I would possibly set up international relief funds to back up our budget.
Harish Prasad
ReplyDeleteCurrent Event #4
Period 5
Honors World History
10-4-12
We have had the fifth anniversary of America’s worst natural disaster when Hurricane Katrina submerged New Orleans leaving 1,464 of its residents dead. Entire towns along the Mississippi coast were wiped out and about a million people lost their homes with damages totaling about a billion dollars. The recent floods of Pakistan caused by the monsoons have displaced about twenty million Pakistanis and geographically altered over twenty percent of the country. There are many similarities between the disastrous hurricane of New Orleans and the monsoons of Pakistan. Both were very destructive and took the lives of many people. Many towns, cities and villages were wiped off the face of this Earth, and thousands of displaced residents either continued to live in temporary shelters or are homeless. Both Katrina and Pakistan floods resulted in looting and riots in the aftermath. Neither countries presidents never seemed to initially have realized the magnitude of the devastations caused by these floods, but later on scrambled to organize relief efforts. However, the water-borne epidemics are more widespread in Pakistan (like cholera) than in New Orleans.
The Indus River Basin is known as the “cradle of civilization” with evidence of canals being used for water management. Since a drainage system with a capacity to drain away these deadly is next to impossible, the next best option may be to make additional canals along the cities or edges into the river and connect to a nationwide canal network which could divert the flood water to reservoir. Such a network may not be feasible financially. Hence, building a dam may be the best immediate solution to this problem. The reason for flooding during the monsoon can be attributed to extensive land use and environment degradation in the uplands and lowlands of the river basin. Extensive deforestation of natural forests reduced the water retention capacity of the forest eco-system is also one of the reasons for extensive flooding. Prevention of deforestation and planting more trees would also help to prevent flooding in the long run.
If I had a leadership role, the first thing I would do is to form a government agency similar to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). This agency would have full responsibility for dealing with any such disasters at any given time, and would effectively manage emergency response. Since it is possible to save lives and reduce losses by having an effective community based early warning and evacuation system, I would make sure that such a system is in place. This will help taking evasive action by moving families and essential belongings to higher and safer land.
The flooding in Pakistan is like the floods caused by Hurricane Katrina because of the sheer devastation of the areas. Both resulted in high death tolls and with high injury rates. They caused the residents of their areas to have no house or workplace. The disasters also compare because they were both caused by a severe storm that is typical of the area, but more severe than normal.
ReplyDeleteIn order to survive through yearly floods, Pakistani villagers and farmers can build their houses and their other structures on stilts so that in the case of rain, their homes aren't washed away. The community could also work together to create drainage systems to alleviate the damage.If scientists from Pakistan and around the world work together they could probably genetically engineer crops to bloom earlier so that they would not be destroyed by the flooding.
If I were in charge of the Pakistani government, I would send aid to those affected and beg other disaster organizations to do the same. The areas would probably need doctors not only for the injuries caused directly by the flooding, but for the diseases caught by the villagers due to the standing water. The citizens probably wouldn't have much to eat and clean water to drink since their crops and wells have been destroyed so I would need to send that to them.
Alexis Ramirez
ReplyDelete1st Period
10-4-12
1) Some things that can be compared is that like in hurricane Katrina there was a lot devastation. There were houses destroyed, people killed, left survivors everywhere in the area. There were lands were covered with huge amounts of water in the crops and homes in Pakistan, but not in New Orleans. This because Pakistan does not have the technology that we have to recover quicker. Also that they have no money, food, and the treatment of the diseases impacting the villages.
2)Some ways they can prevent less damage to their crops, buildings, and homes is to create some kind of irrigation system. So the water can go directly to the crops. Other ways can be like making the homes, buildings more elevated so it can cause less damage and flooding. Also to create canals to get transportation. These strategies can work for some time until help arrives.
3) If I was the leader I would do something immediately. At least give them supplies, and food so they can survive without starvation. Also give them medical help because if I was the leader I don't want a virus or disease spreading and killing innocent people. I don't want to cause a world infection. But mostly to help the citizens.
Julia Perkins
ReplyDelete5th Period History
There are many similarities that can be drawn between natural disasters such as the flooding in the Indus Valley and Hurricane Katrina (and others) in New Orleans. Both are natural disasters that involve an excess of water that has caused injury or loss of life to many. Also, both hurricanes and floods destroy buildings, which causes the displacement of many.
I think that it could be very beneficial to the people of Pakistan if there were efficient drainage systems all throughout the region of the Indus Valley that is subjected to flooding. That way, when the monsoon season began, the water would have a place to go, as opposed to just gathering in increasingly large puddles. In New Orleans, levees are essential to keep the water out at all times, because the entire city is below sea level.
If I was in a position of leadership at the time of a disaster like this one, I would try to help out those in need. I know that not everyone will turn out peachy-keen when a natural disaster like this occurs, I think that it is important to help those that can be helped. I think that it’s surprising, actually, that nobody has bothered to help out these people that are starving to death through no fault of their own.
Kelly Zhang
ReplyDelete2nd Period
There are many similarities between the notable hurricanes of New Orleans and the recent flooding of Pakistan. These are both acts of nature, and they both usually occur between a specific time periods. Hurricanes usually occur during hurricane season around June to November, and the monsoons usually occur during the monsoon season around June to September. These are both around the same time of year. Both natural disasters kill hundreds of people, hurt people, destroy crops, topple buildings and destroy people’s homes. The affected areas take a long time to return to normal and rebuild. When hurricanes occur in New Orleans, the government helps New Orleans rebuild. The Pakistani government claims to be helping their people rebuild, but the citizens of the video we watched stated otherwise that they have not seen a single government official since the flooding began. There are many similarities between the New Orleans’ hurricanes and the Pakistani flooding.
The monsoons usually occur every year between June and September, so Pakistanis should build better buildings and foundations so that they will not have to rebuild their homes every year. They could create a better system to redirect water to lower ground. Ditches could be dug in the ground like the irrigation system of ancient Egypt. The village could be built on higher ground to ensure that water does not collect in the villages. A better irrigation system and construction of buildings would prevent some of the damage caused by the flooding.
If I were placed in a leadership role in this kind of situation, I would help the people. They deserve to get help and rebuild and piece together their lives. They have been through a rough time. They have lost friends and family to these destructive monsoons and are dying from lack of supplies (food, shelter, etc…) and sickness. These people need to be helped need I would send medical personnel to help treat the sick and wounded, constructors to build more stable homes, and volunteers who want to help give out food, clean water and other supplies. This would help the people who were affected, but that still would not be enough. I would provide financial aid afterwards to help those who were affected to start their lives over again. If I was placed in a leadership role, then I would do my best to help those affected.
Current Event #4
ReplyDeleteIndus Valley
Keith Segars
PD. 2
10-4
Similar to notable hurricanes such as Katrina and Hugo, the recent flooding in Pakistan is destructive and something that is surprising to its victims. In Pakistan, villages have been destroyed and over 300,00 people have been forced to leave their homes. This also happened in New Orleans when Katrina hit. Many people were left without homes and without a way to feed their families. While the damage in New Orleans was huge, the damage in Pakistan seems to be much greater. Large areas of land and villages are under water and heavily damaged. It will likely take these villages a longer time to recover than the city of New Orleans. Pakistan does not have the resources or governmental structure of the United States. After Katrina, the city of New Orleans constructed a series of levees to better manage flooding and the flow of water. These structures are designed to move water away from low-lying areas to large lakes. This system might work in Pakistan. Unlike the United States, there seems to be little governmental help for the people of Pakistan during natural disasters. Given the country’s geography and climate, it seems important for Pakistan to develop ways to assist people. It is likely that there will be more floods in the future. I would respond to these disasters by using the military to aid in reconstruction and rebuilding. The military should have the equipment and skills needed to bring some immediate relief to the people. I would also reach out to other countries for food and supplies. This problem seems to be one that could only be solved through cooperation between Pakistan and other countries.
Joyce Yao
ReplyDelete2nd Period
Current Event #4
When you compare the hurricane-prone New Orleans, and the yearly monsoons and flooding of Pakistan, you can find many similarities regarding evacuations, losses, and devastation. One example is flooding. The flooding in both places get so bad that large evacuations occur. People have to leave their homes and move to safe land. The damage is also severe from the flooding and wind elements. Both places probably have alike damages concerning buildings and such. There is most likely not a lot of the buildings left, if any, they're beyond repair. Unfortunately, both have many deaths occur. Many people are injured as well. Income and outcome is scarce because all of their resources have been destroyed and workers are incapable of doing anything with all of their assets gone.
For safety measures, Pakistanians should have a planned escape route incase of any random floods. They should also have a sort of levee, or barrier to delay the flood while everyone evacuates, or even make them secure enough to keep the flood at bay. There should be some type of alert that can be heard by everyone if there is an emergency.
If I had leadership at that time, then I first of all would have an emergency signal that everyone could hear. I think the fact that the government didn't warn the residents of the floods was a major factor of why there was so much devastation. The government isn't helping them at all. I would give the city some remodeling, such as barriers and an evacuation plan. So when the emergency sound goes off, then everyone will know the evacuation plan and it will all be somewhat orderly, and hopefully there would be less devastations.
The monsoons in pakistan and India in many ways are similar to the hurricanes that ravage the southeastern portion of the United States. The biggest of these similarities is the immense flooding that occurs. Also due to this flooding there are often many people that are left homeless, or with their lives devastated. This devastation can come from something like destruction of crops or destruction of a building. The monsoons also have many aspects that make them different from hurricanes. An example of one of these is how the monsoons are a yearly thing while major hurricanes are not present each year. Also it seems hurricane survivors get much more aid than those who are affected by the monsoons.
ReplyDeleteThe areas in Pakistan that get hit hardest by the monsoons should use techniques to prevent such disasters in the future. An example of one technique that could be used is levis. Another possible technique is producing more water resistant crops, or moving the farmlands out of the flooded areas.
I were asked to help manage the situation in Pakistan I would act immediately. One of the ways I would do this is by providing shelter to those who have had their homes destroyed. I would also try to access help that comes from outside of the country. Though I am not sure how much help I could actually receive due to the financial state of the country.
This most recent monsoon in Pakistan is a great tragedy and should be remembered for a long time. This could be very comparable with the hurricanes that have hit New Orleans for the past several years, especially by the amount of flooding. The hurricanes themselves are bad, but the flooding makes it about 50 times worse, and dramatically affects the amount of lives lost.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that would certainly help prevent these terrible floods that come from monsoons would be the building of levees, natural of non-natural. Levees would prevent most of the flooding, and would also prevent many structures from getting destroyed. Another thing tah would help prevent flooding would be an irrigation system.
I would step up as a leader, and start to form a close group of people dedicated for surviving the floods, and helping other people. Once I would have a large enough group I would start to send search parties to rescue other survivors.
Sam Orenstein
DeleteOctober 5, 2012
Honors World History, Fifth Period
1. In New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina caused 81 billion dollars in property damage, and nearly 2000 deaths. The hurricane caused the Mississippi river to breach over 40 levees, causing flooding everywhere. These monsoons are unpredictable, and cause flooding, damage, and loss of lives; extremely similar to Hurricane Katrina.
2. As we learned in World History, the Harappian civilization built structures atop mud-brick platforms, which prevented flooding and property damage. Even though we live in a much more modern society, a similar foundation could be used. Pakistan is considered a second-world country, meaning they are mostly developed, and not completely poverty-stricken. If granted unlimited resources and time, an extremely stable and heavy steel foundation would be ideal. For a moderately-wealthy country, a foundation of bricks or cement would work, too.
3. In Pakistan, the government consists of a president, parliament, and a Supreme Court (judiciary), showing the success and advancement of the nation. The government could help the citizens in danger, but here, refuse to. I would try to distribute food, water, and temporary shelter as quickly as possible.
Lily Elnaccash
ReplyDeleteH World History 7
The wet monsoons come every year to Pakistan, just like hurricanes come every fall to along the coast of the United States. The result is varying levels of destruction, depending on the year. In both cases, the people affected will be/were displaced from their homes for a long time. Some won’t/didn’t have homes that are/were still standing. The loss of life in both cases is huge.
My first thought was that they could use levees, which are large ridges of soil that hold back water, to combat the monsoons. I then realized that monsoon waters come from above, not from the sides. Levees are built near rivers and the ocean, but would not help the people in Pakistan. I read that a lot of the damage was caused by the erosion made possible by the water. They could plant lots of trees on slopes and risky areas, which could hold the soil down with their roots. Our community where we lived in California several years ago was at risk for mudslides, and that is one of the things that we did to deal with it.
Hindsight is 20/20, of course, but if I were in a leadership position there, I would be aware of the yearly monsoons and potential flooding and would have had structures built where people could be safe. The Louisiana Superdome was used for this purpose during hurricane Katrina, but it was not built for that purpose and sustained damage. It was used as a last resort. I think that it would be great if there were multiple structures spread throughout the region where people could take refuge.
Jeffrey He
ReplyDeleteWorld History - Period 7
Every year in Pakistan, wet monsoons hit and floods occur. This is very similar to the hurricanes along the southeastern coast of the United States. Both result in varying levels of damage, destruction, and chaos. Both hurricanes in the United States and floods in Pakistan cause people to become displaced, loss of personal property and housing, loss of life, and loss of crops and livestock.
I originally thought they should build levees so that it can prevent the flood from overflowing and entering the city causing damage and loss of life. It could be a good idea because in the United States, levees are used to reduce damage done from hurricanes and it works fine. Also, you could elevate existing buildings, and only build future buildings on higher ground. Planting trees in eroded places would also hold the soil in place, preventing furthermore loss of nutrient rich dirt necessary for crops and livestock.
If i were in a leadership position, I would of course send aid to those in need, but obviously not everyone is accessible in all locations. You could provide aid in crowded places in an urban population such as the Louisiana Superdome during Katrina. In Pakistan, I think it is just unfortunate that people are being left for themselves rather than being aided by the government and is sad that they must rely on foreign aid, instead of aid from their own country
Kaitlin Hill
ReplyDelete2nd Period
1. The recent tragedy in Pakistan is very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans. They both caused damage by taking lives and damaging roads, streets, and buildings. The water was at one point as high as some of the buildings and homes.
2. One way that the people in Pakistan could better protect themselves from the monsoons is to rebuild their houses to be sturdier. This way, when the monsoons came they wouldn’t completely destroy their homes.
3. I think it is horrible that the government has done nothing to help the citizens of Pakistan that were affected by the monsoons. If I were in charge, I would make sure that aid was offered to everyone in need after natural disasters occurred.
Joy Stouffer
ReplyDelete7th period
1) This flood reminds me of Hurricane Katrina because of its severe impact. The article says that many people were affected by the flood. Houses were destroyed and villages were hurt. 422 people died in the flood, whereas in Katrina 1,833 people died. Both natural disasters hurt many people and where catastrophic.
2) A way for Pakistan to prevent flooding is to create a comprehensive Indus River basin management strategizing. Also they could use floodways. The Sumerians used levees to control the flooding of the Nile River. I hope Pakistanis find some way to control flooding because each flood results in so many lives lost.
3) If I were in charge of giving aid to the flood victims, I would try to evacuate as many people as possible with helicopters. I would have airplanes drop packages of food and medical supplies to the victims. Also, I would set up shelters as close to the victims as possible.
Robert Fernald
ReplyDelete1st Honors World History
10/5/2012
The recent monsoons in Pakistan are similar to hurricane Katrina in a few different ways. They both result in loss of lives, homes, crops and injuries. Also both events are big international tragedies because they are catastrophic and they attract a lot of public attention. Both events resulted in a major damage to the economy, in New Orleans hurricane Katrina destroyed homes and public buildings. In Pakistan, the flooding destroyed many homes and ruined an estimated 80% of the cash crops.
The people of Pakistan have a couple ways of preventing the floods. They could build dams and levees to keep the water from flooding and they could live on higher ground. Another option would be if they built their houses up on stilts like at the beach so floods would not wash away their houses. In other places like New Orleans they have to build levees so when it floods the water cannot get in. Places with low elevation like Pakistan and New Orleans especially have to worry about flooding because all of the water just collects because there is nowhere for it to flow to.
I am really surprised that the citizens of Pakistan have not received any aid yet. If I were placed in a leadership position I would build walls and levees to prevent the floods in the first place. If it did flood I would organize tents that were located on high ground so people without homes would have a place to live. I would also set up small hospitals around the country for emergency aid. In addition to those measures I would send out search teams to find and bring back survivors so they could be treated at the hospitals. If all of this were done most people could be saved and they would be ready if it happened again.
Annelise ter Horst
ReplyDelete7th
1.Well in both situations of the monsoons in Pakistan and the Hurricanes in New Orleans, there has been severe damage by water. Many people were killed in each scenario and many houses destroyed. I do not think that crops were a major deal in New Orleans, but that was a problem in Pakistan, which affects the villages in that region more because their lives depend on the prosperity of farming.
2. I think that the people of Pakistan should handle this problem like the ancient sumerians did. The sumerians had a way of controlling the flooding by trapping the flooding water and dispersing it into fields when there was a drought. I realise that this would have to be on a larger scale, for the Pakistan monsoons are greater in size than the sumerian floods were.
3.If I was placed in a leadership role to take action in this situation, I would try to help everyone I could. Of course anyone would like to help, but I do not think that the government is ignoring this village intentionally. While I do not agree with the government not helping, there are factors to which the government could actually help. I do not know Pakistans’ economic situation, I doubt its the best, there also could be limited resources, people and time to get help to every village. But if I was an official, I would try to get everyone that I could to help out the villages in need of it.
Bobby Russell
ReplyDelete5th period
The similarities between the hurricanes between the hurricanes in New Orleans and the monsoons in Pakistan, are the amount of damage done by both are very significant and the lives lost are an overwhelming number of people. The disasters have both destroyed homes and communities in a whole. The people of Pakistan need to build homes with sturdier foundations, or they need to move their homes to higher ground to avoid the worst of the floods. An example of other places that have done things to prevent flood damage would be the city of New Orleans where they have rebuilt homes and structures with a sturdier foundation and it has helped tremendously lower the amount of damage done to those buildings. If I were in a position of power I would offer my assistance to the country of Pakistan and try to help in any way possible. I would send people with food and supplies to begin to rebuild communities.
Gabi Brenman
ReplyDeletePeriod 7
The recent monsoon in Pakistan left behind a horrible aftermath that is very devastating. It reminds me a lot of the aftermath of hurricane Katrina. Both disasters left behind thousands of terrified, melancholy, hurt people. Many of their houses, schools, and temples were destroyed by these natural disasters. All that is left of their buildings is debris and rubble. Many crops in both cases were flooded, leaving many people without jobs or food. The clean up in New Orleans is taking many years to recover. The incident in Pakistan will likely take a long time to fully recover as well.
Residents of Pakistan should reconsider the structure of their houses if they live near spots where monsoons are likely to reach. People need to construct a way to keep housing more sturdy. It is very important to come up with how to keep the base of the house sturdy. I think if the houses are built taller, than people can go to the roof of their house during a monsoon to stay safer. At the beach they often have tall houses so that this method can be used during major flooding.
If I was in a role of leadership at this time, I would be very angry that no one has started a rescue mission to all of the survivors of the monsoon. They do not have a lot food or safe drinking water left. I would organize groups to go to the effected areas through out Pakistan to provide relief to these poor people. I would make sure to bring along doctors to help treat the wounded. I would spread the word to other public figures to help raise awareness and get help. Leaving people without the help of their country is not acceptable.
Linda Martinez
ReplyDeleteperiod:2
1) There are many thing that are similar we can draw out . For example there was lots of flooding. Many people died as well as many people got injured because of this flooding. Houses were lost and token away from the flood and people left the area as well as the flooding damaged the crops an estimate of at least 80%.
2) A way to cause less destruction would be if the way of building there houses differently. Instead of having a house so low to the ground they could built houses with upper structure so when the water flows it wouldn’t be that much of an impact to the house. As for the crops then it would be better to built a strong gate so only a certain amount of water would come in and not over flow the crops.
3) If I was in the leadership position I would help the citizen by providing them with food and clothes. For the people that lost there homes I would set up tents so they could have a place to sleep. I would also provide a small hospital for anyone with health or injures could go and get treated.
Emily Ball
ReplyDelete10/5/2012
Period 1
This disaster is similar to what happened with hurricane Katrina. Yes, the tragic event is not the same thing, but many people were harmed, homes were destroyed, and many other similar situations. The problem with these storms, is that when they occur, you can’t really judge how long they will go on, or how much damage they will cause when they first occur.
For citizens to protect their houses, crops, and other valuables, they could always build everything (or plant everything), on a high elevated plain which will protect them from the flooding from these storms. It will also save their crops and plants from being overloaded with water. They could also build troughs like they did for the Indus Valley, and they might be able to maintain some control over these storms.
If I were to have been put in a role of leadership for Pakistan, then getting the people aid would be one of the first things I would do. It would be a hard enough tragedy to get through in general, even with aid.
ReplyDeleteRachel Danner
7th period
All natural disasters have a tragic and terrible impact on the surrounding people and community. One of the similarities that I saw after watching the video and reading the article, was the number of people whose homes were damaged or destroyed, and who no longer have a house return to. The hurricanes of New Orleans have had such lasting impacts on the citizens, I can see the same things happening to these poor villagers in Pakistan. I know that in New Orleans, they set up levee systems to try and keep the encroaching water at bay, but unless more sturdy building materials can be used, I don’t see much of a future for the communities by the water. Another factor of course, is that bodies of water all around the world are rising due to global warming. I recently went to a science talk on this in the Back Bar of Top of the Hill, which was very informative about these issues. If I were in charge of a group of people so negatively impacted by these terrible events, I would try to do everything I could for them. Structures and economies are important to rebuild, but we need the people to run them. I would run search and rescue missions so that missing persons could be found and returned to their families, and provide shelter and food for those who had been put out of their homes. I think that a government has a responsibility to its people, and I don’t think that the Pakistani government is fulfilling that commitment.
Anna Zurliene
ReplyDelete7th period
Friday, October 05, 2012
The Indians will have to rebuild their homes, which was their place for protection while people in New Orleans had to rebuild their breached levees, which were their source of protection from floods. The people in New Orleans also have to rebuild their homes and many other things like stores and businesses where they earned their money and got food to eat just like the Indians have to remake their farms so that they can make money and survive. There was no clean water available to either of the groups affected by flooding and it was extremely costly for New Orleans to repair as it will be for those in India. There also isn’t much transportation from one city to another so you can’t go stay with people for refuge from the flood. They were stranded. Unfortunately, people are going to have to completely rebuild their lives in both places while suffering form the loss of family members and friends.
Since most of their buildings have been badly damaged, I think it would be effective to build their new villages at an elevation so they will be better protected from the monsoons. They could also do this with their crops so that they aren’t completely destroyed by the water. Also, the more vegetation you plant, the more water is soaked up, especially when trees are planted. Dams could help prevent flood damage, specifically dry dams which are for floods, and levees could be built to prevent water from rivers overflowing in to the villages while drainage systems could help gets excess water out.
I hate to see people suffer so hearing all of those people in distress and just bewildered at the fact that all they had was gone and not knowing what to do made me feel very upset myself. If I were in a leadership role I would obviously try and help the people and provide them with the basic resources that they need while helping them get back on their feet at the same time. Also, it would not only do the people good by helping them because if I wasn’t helping them I would probably be getting criticized by my country and other countries as well. It puts a bad reputation on the government. Of course, the most important thing is the well-being of the people because you can see they are in a state of utter astonishment, and it is the responsibility of the government to take care of their people, so that is exactly what I would do. I can’t imagine how it would feel to be in their shoes and I would want to make sure they don’t ever experience it again. They can’t be held responsible for the atrocity they have suffered through.
Olivia Wander
ReplyDeletepd. 1
10/05/12
Pakistan is again suffering the effects of monsoon flood. This is the 4th major flood in the last 7 years, with more than 400 dead and more than 4.5 million people displaced. To put this into perspective, the floods associated with Hurricane Katrina, the worst flood in the last decade in the US, took 70 lives and displaced up to 1/2 a million people. The damages for these two natural disasters are somewhat similar. Both include structural damage, loss of crops, and hundreds of thousands of displaced people. However, the affect on the countries is very different. While these floods in Pakistan do not approach the worst floods in the world, Pakistan has suffered from a cluster of floods in recent years. These floods affect a large segment of population (more than 2%), while the floods resulting from Hurricane Katrina only affected about one quarter of a percent of the population of the US.
In the US, levies, canals and dams have been used to help control seasonal floods. While the same approaches may work in Pakistan, these large scale engineering projects are expensive, and Pakistan is a poor country. As the effects of the floods are more to do with the aftermath (displacement, distress, and disease) it may be more cost effective to help them organize to provide aid to the displaced instead of trying to control nature. An interesting article points out that Pakistan has asked for aid to better predict the weather conditions that will lead to flood, and this may be the most effective way for a country such as the US to engage and help Pakistan avoid suffering the effects of monsoon floods.
If I were in a leadership position in Pakistan, I would be actively doing two things. One, I would send out aid to areas in distress. Such aid would include doctors, rescue and search parties to find missing persons, and food rations. Two, I would reach out to other world countries and ask for financial and on the ground aid. Pakistan has mentioned that they would like help tracking monsoons and other weather that will affect the yearly floods. This is aid easily given by any country with a weather service, such as the US. If I were in a leadership position in the US, I would be reaching out to Pakistan. I would see to it that the National Weather Service helps Pakistan figure out how to track the monsoons, so they can better prepare for the floods.
Jessi Szymczak
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
per. 2
Reading the CNN article "Hundreds killed in Pakistan flooding" about the monsoon rains I was able to connect it with the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Hurricane Katrina and the monsoons in Pakistan had a lot of similar things that resulted because of the floods. In both of these natural disasters crops were destroyed, lives were lost, homes were flooded and a lot of destruction was caused.
People living in Pakistan can take many measures to protect their land and themselves. Houses could be built at higher elevations to prevent flooding in the homes. The same with crops, they could be planted at high elevations as well to save the food they grow so they aren't wipe out by floods. Another thing that the people of Pakistan could help create are dams that would block homes from the flooding or adjusting their irrigation system to better fit the type of land they live on as well as how heavy the rainfall is expected to be every year.
First of all this event in general that happened it terrible. Second, from hearing about all of the diseases that are being spread and how many lives are being lost it is so sad to hear that they are not getting any help at all. If something like this happened in America I know that we would have people to help as soon as they could. If I were placed in a leadership role I would definitely have help being sent to save all of the living people and have immediate care to help any person that was sick or hurt. After people were moved to a safer area I would then have people go into Pakistan to start to help clean things up. The main thing that surprised me was how they weren't able to get any help at all and were left basically stranded there until help would be sent to them, which is very sad to hear about.
George McBurney
ReplyDelete5th period
1. The monsoons in Pakistan and hurricanes in New Orleans are both very much alike. They both caused massive flooding, and the death of a lot of people. Most of the time hurricanes are predictable but in the case of Katrina it was probably as equally of a surprise as the monsoons in Pakistan.
2. I think they could create some sort of drainage system or pathway that allows the water to flow towards a certain direction. The drainage system could be made out of clean materials.
3. If I were to lead I would try to first supply everyone with necessities such as food, water, and shelter, if possible. Then I would move the elders, children, injured, and ill to safety first. And if there is room, I would try to move as many civilians as I can.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHope Davison
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
The most prominent hurricane to sweep damage over New Orleans is the infamous Hurricane Katrina. This disastrous hurricane was extremely similar to the destructive monsoons that passed through Pakistan recently, leaving behind major ruin, because they did similar damage. This includes destroying hundreds of houses/villages, wiping out well over 1000 people, and causing billions of dollars of damage (in Hurricane Katrina’s case.) Unique but significant to Pakistan is the overwhelming damage of the cash crops. Many of the people are lost with no source of getting food. I believe the major difference in these two very similar disasters is that in New Orleans, they have imminent help from nearby states and organizations. However, Pakistan does not have many resources to turn to when they are left with ruin on their hands. I feel like if Pakistan got more attention, they could acquire more resources to fund projects to make their buildings stronger and crops safer. Monsoons are very hard to fight against, though, being unpredictable and for the most part highly destructive. More importantly, I believe they should have a nearby evacuation site for when it approaches unexpectedly. I would probably lean towards major organizations like Red Cross, but also send government funded nurses and doctors to go out to the site, maybe even conduct a project for a hospital there. It is extremely important that injured get medical help immediately, however flying so many people to the U.S. or elsewhere with access to medical aid would be more of a hassle rather than having their own hospital or nurses with medical items coming to them, especially if they are too weak to take such a trip. I certainly wouldn’t turn my back on these people after they suffered through a catastrophe so major.
1. The recent tragedy in Pakistan is very similar to the hurricane in New Orleans. They both caused damage by taking lives and damaging roads, streets, and buildings. The water was at one point as high as some of the buildings and homes.
ReplyDelete2. One way that the people in Pakistan could better protect themselves from the monsoons is to rebuild their houses to be sturdier. This way, when the monsoons came they wouldn't completely destroy their homes.
3. I think it is horrible that the government has done nothing to help the citizens of Pakistan that were affected by the monsoons. If I were in charge, I would make sure that aid was offered to everyone in need after natural disasters occurred.
Kurt Gee
ReplyDelete5/10/12
Mr. Waters
World History
1) The event in New Orleans that happened in 2005 is similar to this one is because they both have people who were killed and severely hurt. 350,000 people have been told to leave their homes and live somewhere else this was the same case in New orleans aswell .
2) What solutions can they have so they can prevent this from happening again. Pakistan people can raise their house like the people from New Orleans or build gates surrounding the houses of the people.
3) How would I command my people if I were in this situation? I would try to get help from other countries to support us so we can get some help. I would build houses for people who lost their house. but they would have to share the house with another family so we do not have to spend a lot of money. I have much more to tell, but those are one of my decisions.
In comparison to the notable hurricanes of New Orleans, the monsoons in Pakistan are very similar and different in many ways. The monsoons can kill people, destroy homes and roads, destroy food supplies and more as well as the hurricanes. The monsoons however, are more frequently occurring.
ReplyDeleteGeographically speaking, Pakistan can take measures for defense against these monsoons by barricading their homes, getting extra food/water supplies and protecting their crops.
The government, in most cases of disasters, does not help people efficiently and fast enough. If I was in a leadership role, I would try to get everyone the aid that they need in order to return to their regular lives, as quickly as possible.
Jeff Richardson
ReplyDeleteHonors World History
Period 1
1. Monsoons are both unpredictable and very destructive. As you can see in the article, hundreds of pakistanis where killed and thousands were injured due to flooding. The similarity that strikes me the most between these rains and the hurricanes in New Orleans is the aftermath. In both situations homes are left demolished, no longer fit to house people. Unfortunately, structures built in either of these places are constantly at risk of another storm. This is a risk the residents take when they decide to settle in such an unforgiving land.
2. There are, however, ways protect the houses, or even prevent the flooding itself. One way to lower the chances of flooding is to create irrigation canals. This is what the ancient Egyptians used for their civilization, so why not Pakistan? This will channel the flood water to other locations and even direct it toward good use, like a farm. Another option is to follow in the footsteps of their Indo-European ancestors and build houses on a platform. This keeps the base elevated and away from flooding.
3. If I were leading in a time like this, the first step would be to reach out for help. Other countries will certainly have organizations that specialize in this field. Look at the Haitian earthquake for example, they received lots of assistance from groups in the U.S. through packaged meals. Another very important duty of the officials is to maintain a productive atmosphere. This simply means they can't let their country wallow in self pity for very long. The next step I would take is to conduct a speech that provides a positive note for the situation. Something like this is needed so that people all around Pakistan will recover and start rebuilding.
Emily Molina
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
In both the New Orleans hurricanes and the Pakistan monsoons, major rain caused extensive flooding of the areas. The high waters caused crop damage and has destroyed the homes of many people.
Also, 350,000 people have been displaced by the monsoons. So far, 422 people have been killed, and 3,000 more have been injured.
A possible solution to the flooding in Islamabad could be to make large walls or levees around the city, which would direct the flood waters away from the city and the crop fields. The water would flow downhill to the Indus River. In New Orleans, levees were used to redirect the water away from the city the second time, and they worked. Especially in a mountainous area like Pakistan, this technique should work because the levees corral the water away while gravity moves it to where it needs to be.
If I was placed in charge of getting people medical attention and moving them to safety during a flood, I do not know if I could help everyone. With so many needy people, the only way to attend to them would be if I literally had an army of volunteer doctors and others to help transport people to safety. So many resources, like transportation, food, materials for temporary homes, and more would be needed to support such a vast crowd of people. I would need to have a place away from the floods but still in Pakistan (I would keep the people in their own country) that would serve as a refugee camp. I would get people to work on redirecting the water away from the villages and then on rebuilding the homes so people could return. I would set up strong levees around the villages to protect the settlements from future monsoons.
David Collazo
ReplyDeleteperiod 7
In paskistan a major hurricane caused flooding in many places.
This destroyed many things not only that but the hurricane killed
422 people. This affected 350,000 houses. New orleans and
paskistan both lost many houses and people. If i was in this
situatiuon i would try my best to help other familys by giving
food to people who need it.I would try to get a huge amount of
people out of the flood and take them to home were they can stay
and get food and shelter.
Sydney B
ReplyDelete(i finally got my computer fixed)
Period 5
In both the floods of New Orleans and Pakistan, a couple thousand people were either dead or injured. Both put families out of their homes and both devastated vast areas of land and life. It took a long time to clean up the hurricane of New Orleans and it will definitely take awhile to fix Pakistan. As the video shows, everyone in Pakistan is scared and devastated. The loss of everything (crops, money, homes) greatly compares with the loss of the same in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. In a way, the two are very similar in results.
I think, in order to prevent future devastation, the people of Pakistan could build their homes on tall structures. They could also build irrigation systems to make the water run off of the homes and cause less damage. Other than that, they could evacuate the premises around the time of the monsoons.
If I was placed in that situation, I would most definitely send rescue missions to the site of the devastation. I would not just sit around and pretend it wasn't happening like the officials there now. I would ask for aid from other countries and gather resources to send as care packages to the affected families.
Iain Dixon
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
(Wifi was messed up until last night)
After reading the CNN article about the flood in Pakistan, I am left at awe to the force of nature. The devastation that the flood reeked upon Pakistan doesn’t seem like something that would happen in this modern day and age, but time doesn’t quell natural events.
I don’t actually know much about the hurricanes that happen in New Orleans, besides
that tons of people die, and the city is ravaged by water. Because of my limited knowledge of the hurricanes that went on there, I can’t actually compare the two places very well, but I know that the floods in Pakistan, and the Hurricanes in New Orleans were both very deadly and devastating. I know that they left tons of people without homes, and tons of people were killed or hurt in these events.
The only things that I can think of that the people of Pakistan could do to attempt to
stop or delay future flooding, is the create barriers around their bodies of water and rivers, create drainage ditches near crops, and by creating areas for water to be drained into.
3. If I were the leader of a country that was ravaged by floods, or any other natural disaster, I would leap into action. Send out the military to help evacuate the people who are stuck or stranded in the floods, help relocate people, and transport the refuges into safe places. I would also send them out to help feed the people, and try and transport their goods to safe places. I would have people create drainage paths for the flooded fields, as well as start replanting the dried soil for crops.
1.In both the flood in Pakistan and the hurricane in New Orleans the death toll was very high, and affected many people, in both people also lost many things such as property, and lives.
ReplyDelete2. In order to prevent something like from ever happening again, the Pakistanis could try to build walls around large bodies of water, and to make irrigation systems in order to divert water flow
3.if I was a ruler in this situation, I would most likely try to help people by sending rescue teams in, I would also try and evacuate people from areas prone to flooding before monsoon season starts, and I would also send people who's crops were destroyed food, so they wouldn't starve to death.
Current event # 4
ReplyDelete1. I guess the people in New Orleans haven’t too much to worry about but for the people in Pakistan they have too many problems to handle as to how they are going to eat, how much material will be left to make new homes and if they should move.
2. Well the best thing that can be done is for the citizens to make an irrigation system or to build stilted houses for protection against the flood.
3. I would act urgently to come up with solutions and figure out ways to protect survivors from such an incident.