A couple things I am noticing about this disaster, that I think indicates some issues that need to be looked at hard for future international disaster relief operations. Initial attack for this needs to be organized and geared towards establishing a centralized command built around ICS or Incident Command System. If you do not get organized, you will see the massive size of the operation cripple itself, and the crucial elements of a rescue will not get in there in time.
So let’s get started with the first steps. I am operating on the assumption that diplomacy has succeeded in allowing a rescue effort to commence. Without that blessing, nothing can happen. But if there is a go for this type of operation, then this is what needs to happen. Centralized command must be established, and those on the ground must impose their will on all of those wishing to help and who want help. This is a war against death and destruction, and the enemy is time. Without establishing some firm organization in the beginning, then you will see the effort become hindered, and lives being lost do to inefficiency.
When I fought forest fires, as well as other disasters in the fire services, we highly depended upon Incident Command and a high octane system of dispatch, in order to save lives and property. We dealt with disasters every summer, and sometimes year round, and you eventually come to some conclusions about the best way to get the job done. It could be fires or floods or whatever, you must bring order to chaos, and you must take control of the situation in order to save lives.