In the aftermath of the recent massive Japanese earthquake the authorities in Galapagos are assessing the damage caused by the tsunami-related waves which hit the Islands on Friday 14 March. Unfortunately their arrival in the archipelago coincided with a high tide, leading to waves nearly six feet in height.
Thankfully there was sufficient warning to carry out a successful evacuation to higher ground - not just for the human residents but also for the Islands' most famous resident, Lonesome George, who was taken to the Highlands of Santa Cruz along with the other giant tortoises from the breeding centre where he lives.
Three of the four inhabited islands have escaped with relatively little damage. The greatest impact was felt in the main town of Puerto Ayora, where a number of waterfront buildings including two hotels and a bank were damaged. Sadly there has also been severe damage to the Marine Sciences complex at the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF). Toni Darton, the Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT)'s chief executive, said: "This is a major blow. The important marine conservation work which we are supporting in Galapagos is underpinned by the scientific research undertaken in CDF's laboratories. We will be working with CDF to ensure this vital work continues."
CDF is busy cleaning up the debris and retrieving equipment in the laboratories. According to CDF's Executive Director, Gabriel Lopez, it was a challenging night as the electricity was down and phone communications were difficult or nonexistent. Dr Lopez said: "Our staff has again preformed admirably and mingas (voluntary work parties) have been organised to clean up."
"I know many of our members and supporters are concerned about the harm that may have been done to Galapagos," added Toni Darton. "Damage reports are still coming in from all over Galapagos and It will be some time before scientists can carry out a thorough assessment of the coastal zones on the uninhabited islands, but we are hopeful that the impact on the Islands' wildlife has been minimal. I hope fairly soon to have a complete picture upon which we can assess the best way to help Galapagos recover".
Inside the Red Mangrove Hotel © Swen Lorenz
Thankfully there was sufficient warning to carry out a successful evacuation to higher ground - not just for the human residents but also for the Islands' most famous resident, Lonesome George, who was taken to the Highlands of Santa Cruz along with the other giant tortoises from the breeding centre where he lives.
Footpath to Finch Bay Hotel © Swen Lorenz
Damage to the Red Mangrove Hotel © Swen Lorenz
"I know many of our members and supporters are concerned about the harm that may have been done to Galapagos," added Toni Darton. "Damage reports are still coming in from all over Galapagos and It will be some time before scientists can carry out a thorough assessment of the coastal zones on the uninhabited islands, but we are hopeful that the impact on the Islands' wildlife has been minimal. I hope fairly soon to have a complete picture upon which we can assess the best way to help Galapagos recover".
