Mayor Edwin M. Lee today issued the following statement regarding the devastating twin earthquakes in Japan’s Kyushu region and major earthquake in Ecuador:

“On the eve as we commemorate our City’s own 1906 Great Earthquake and Fire, on behalf of the residents of San Francisco, I extend our thoughts and prayers to the people of Japan and Ecuador. I would like to express our City’s condolences to the families and friends of those injured or killed in the aftermath of these devastating earthquakes.

San Francisco stands ready to support any international assistance effort to help the children and families in both Japan and Ecuador, in the search for survivors and helping them to recover and rebuild. San Francisco understands full well the destructive power of earthquakes, and we stand ready to assist to those most in need. The best way to provide aid is to make a monetary donation to a reputable humanitarian organization responding to this disaster like the Red Cross.

These stark reminders remind us that we must always be prepared. It’s not if, but when, the next disaster will strike. We know disasters, whether it is an earthquake, tsunami, or something human made, can happen at any time with little or no warning. That is why it is important to take steps now so you are ready for any emergency. We must ensure our families are safe and our City continues to invest in our emergency infrastructure so San Francisco remains resilient.”

Mayor Lee urges all San Franciscans to visit sf72.org to make a plan and prepare your family and to join the Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT) to ensure communities remain strong and resilient.