Japan and Libya - Disasters show our vulnerability

DAYS after the 9.0 Richter scale earthquake that sent a devastating tsunami crashing through the coastal regions of northern Japan, the images of communities, shipping, rows of buildings, cars and trucks being swept along like leaves in an angry autumn river are probably even more socking than they were when first seen.

The destruction of property was terrifying but the psychological and emotional damage inflicted on people who have lost family members, homes, farms or businesses, not to mention the communities those businesses were rooted in, must be devastating.

There must be a terribly unnerving sense of powerlessness when faced with such a disinterested and implacable force. As more footage comes to light nearly every hour, the awesome power unleashed is truly frightening and sobering.