Just had a short phone call with my friend working in the relief efforts. The strain/stress is really getting to everyone. There is no real effective leadership and a few people are trying to assert themselves as being in charge. Unfortunately, as it usually happens, these people are not qualified to lead things. A lot of local volunteers are starting to abandon efforts because of this. My friend is also getting quite angry at this foolishness. There is talk by a number of volunteers about abandoning the main staging areas and going off to work in some of the local villages. Not good.
"There is no real effective leadership and a few people are trying to assert themselves as being in charge. Unfortunately, as it usually happens, these people are not qualified to lead things. A lot of local volunteers are starting to abandon efforts because of this."
Just wait until the politicians arrive. It might get worse.
"...There is talk by a number of volunteers about abandoning the main staging areas and going off to work in some of the local villages. Not good."
It sure isn't good because all the volunteers should stick together for safety's sake. Separating off into smaller groups leaves them all vulnerable to people who may not need their help as much as they may need to make a political statement with hostages or worse.
Prayers up for your friend and all the volunteers who are trying to help. God protect them and keep them in comfort and good health.
Quick update. My friend has grown even more disallusioned with the 'organized' relief efforts in Phang Nga. She has decided to see what else she can do to help. She spent the last day and a half with a small girl taking her around trying to find her parents. No luck.