the worst cataclysm

more than 100,000 anticipated dead. an unbelievable number, but the horror's in the details: a miles-long row of fishing boats speeds to shore ahead of the killing waters, every angler doomed; a child disappears into water as her father watches; 1,000 plus die in a single train derailment; a village in Maldives disappears. It now appears a disease epidemic is unpreventable. What natural disaster in recorded history exacted a greater human toll?

The South-East Asia Earthquake and Tsunami (SEA-EAT) blog is coordinating regional and some international relief efforts and has news reports as well. People wishing to give money might find Amazon.com easiest. You can donate to Red Cross from the site's homepage.