Now, I know why so many office workers were standing outside their buildings creating commotion and confusion.
The powerful quake's epicentre was near the border in the far north, but the capital's soft foundations were blamed for intensifying the tremors by three or four times. The soft clay is the reason why the tremor was felt in Bangkok even though the earthquake took place 700 kilometes away. The City of Bangkok is underlain by a thick deposit of soft highly plastic marine clay that poses severe foundation problems.
As I saw many people outside the buildings - it dawn upon me that it is the last thing to do as thousands of glass planes can come down with horrendous results.
Do you know what to do when a strong earthquake hits?
- If you are indoors, duck or drop down to the floor. Take cover under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture. Hold on to it and be prepared to move with it. Hold the position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move. Stay clear of windows, fireplaces, woodstoves, and heavy furniture or appliances that may fall over. Stay inside to avoid being injured by falling glass or building parts. If you are in a crowded area, take cover where you are. Stay calm and encourage others to do likewise.
- If you are outside, get into the open, away from buildings and power lines.
- If you are driving, stop if it is safe, but stay inside your car. Stay away from bridges, overpasses and tunnels. Move your car as far out of the normal traffic pattern as possible.
- If possible, avoid stopping under trees, light posts, power lines, or signs.
- If you are in a mountainous area, or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rock and other debris that could be loosened by the earthquake.
- If you are at the beach, move quickly to higher ground or several hundred yards inland.
The Nation Thailand, May 17, 2007
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