The earthquake that struck Chile on February 27, 2010 was one of the largest quakes of the century—measuring 8.8 on the seismic scale. The quake was so powerful that it not only rocked Chile but also permanently shifted the earth’s axis by about 3 inches. According to NASA this shift has shortened our days, by about 1.26 millionths of a second. This has happened once before, Sumatran 2004, a quake shifted the earth 2.76 inches and shortened our days by 6.8 millionths of a second.

The earthquake in Chile claimed nearly 700 lives, a small number compared to the magnitude of the quake. Comparatively, the tsunami that Haiti was recently struck with claimed 22,000 yet was significantly less powerful.

The Chilean earthquake was unexpected, but well prepared for. With building codes being met, earthquake risk awareness, and proper emergency strategy Chile was able to avoid more tragedy than they have already been given.

Chile stands as an example to the rest of the world of when the system works. There are no scratching heads in the back of the room wondering what could have been done. Chile was well prepared for what happened on February 27^th and for that they have lost fewer lives than they could have.

Even in the wake of tragedy Chile stands united, as in downtown Constitucion the area hardest hit by the Tsunami that accompanied the quake. There sits a fishing boat pushed to this area by 33-foot tsunamis that ran through the city as though it were a sand castle. Constitucion had a death toll of 350 itself alone. The town gymnasium is now a makeshift morgue.

Chile President Michelle Bachelete, told the world that “we do not usually ask for help” but help it will receive as charities from around the world swarm once again to help heal the wounds that this generation shares, so that we can heal, together.