Sunday, March 13, 2011

International Rescue Teams, Experts Head to Japan


nternational teams and aid are pouring into Japan as the country tries to deal with the aftermath of a massive earthquake and tsunami and ongoing nuclear crisis.

United Nations experts are on the ground to help coordinate rescue efforts and aid local teams.

Almost 70 countries have offered aid so far. Teams from South Korea and China that specialize in search and rescue are already in Japan.

The United States' aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan arrived off Japan's coast Sunday, ahead of other U.S. ships on their way to the area. U.S. Ambassador to Japan John Roos said the United States is ready to help in any way possible.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission also sent two experts to offer assistance as Japan deals with emergencies at two nuclear reactors.

Britain is preparing to fly out a search and rescue team along with tons of heavy lifting and cutting equipment. Australia, France, Switzerland and Singapore are also sending in teams of search and rescue and other experts.