depressedMassive earthquake shakes China [5/12/08]: Within the day, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao -- who is a geologist by training -- is personally on site to supervise rescue efforts and shout words of encouragement to trapped students.
Massive hurricane floods New Orleans [8/29/05]: Bush plays guitar, Condi goes shoe shopping, and the FEMA head jokes about being trapped in his office. (The timeline throws it into even sharper relief.)
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I had to focus on China to draw the contrast, but let's not forget the crisis in Burma, either. The toll's in the tens of thousands and rising fast. Their leaders are useless, and pure dumb luck is also hampering relief efforts.
Both countries need significant and ongoing relief aid. ICRC, or Mercy Corps, or feel free to suggest other/better aid organizations in comments.