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Radiation threat still monitored as fires ease slightly in Russia. As of Thursday, August
12, Moscow residents were breathing clearer air, with recent satellite images showing
that despite continued heat, the net number of fires as well as area affected had begun
to decrease. Although President Dmitry Medvedev canceled fire emergencies in three regions,
efforts were still being intensified in areas such as the previously contaminated 1986 Chernobyl
nuclear disaster site. Officials stated on Friday that no evidence of radioactive contamination
in the air had been detected thus far by a team of experts sent to monitor the region.
The nuclear research facility of Sarov was also assigned extra fire patrols, especially
as it came under threat from a second fire. Meanwhile, over a quarter of Russia’s crops
have been lost to a combination of the heat wave and flames, with bakers posting signs
to warn customers of increased prices. US President Barack Obama phoned President Medvedev
on Thursday to offer his sympathies for the fire-affected families and to re-affirm an
offer to send firefighting equipment. Local residents have also been volunteering, and
many people from abroad have written with requests for visas to come and lend their
expertise and assistance.
Our continued prayers for the protection of the Russian people, as we join in relief for
the change in weather and blessing of rain. Wishing residents a soon resuming of the regularity
of daily life and that such distressing conditions are minimized as we act with greater consideration
for all beings�