I just had a brief conversation with Minam Rinpoche and learnt:
1. The situation in Yushu has stabilised but the greatest concern now is the coming winter. In two months or so the weather is going to turn cold again. As we know, the winter there is harsh and temperatures is sub zero. Without proper shelter, it is going to be a huge challenge for the poor folks there.
2. Unreported but the Yushu area was recently struck by cyclone. Apparently, about 200 were killed.
3. Along with the rain, the folks there have to contend with the strong winds. Out in the open, it is tough.
4. Come winter, tents will not be able to hold out the cold. It is difficult to know how best to deal with the situation. Hopefully, we can do something. Life is indeed a struggle there. Each will have to fend for themselves but again, hopefully, Minam Rinpoche and others will be able to come up with something. From sources, he has worked tirelessly to do the best he can.
It is difficult for us to imagine how harsh cold can be. Speaking from expereinces of brief exposures to cold, it is terrible. For Yushu, where food is inadequate, facilities non-existent, the suffering is compounded.
