Radiation coming our way? Not probable, says Phivolcs
abs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 03/14/2011 3:01 PM | Updated as of 03/14/2011 4:27 PM
MANILA, Philippines - A text message has been circulating around, warning Filipinos to stay indoors since radiation coming from a leak in a devastated Fukushima nuclear plant may hit local winds starting 4 p.m. today.
In an interview with ANC's Dateline Philippines, however, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Director Renato Solidum debunked claims of fear-mongering message senders, assuring Filipinos that there is zero probability that radiation, if there is indeed a leak, would come our way.
The text message read: “Japan government confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. Remain indoors for first 24 hours. Close doors and windows. Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precaution, radiation may hit Philippines starting 4pm today.”
The ageing Fukushima No. 1 atomic plant exploded following the twin disasters in Japan last week. Its cooling systems and back-up generators were knocked out by the quake and the tsunami waters.
Employees are now on working non-stop to avert a meltdown.
Solidum, who was present during a National Disaster Risk Reduction and Managament Council meeting over the weekend, said “if ever there is a leak, the wind direction from Japan is towards the east, it is not towards the Philippines.”
