If all, or even a couple of the spent fuel pools at Fukushima burn, the radioactive isotopes released will spread into the upper atmosphere, there encircling the globe (see most volcanic eruptions) before falling out and killing all life on Earth. While admitting this will likely cause widespread panic, our leaders need to come out and clearly state what is at stake. The full resources of the world must be brought to bear NOW. If that means sending in the 101st airborne to die containing the situation so be it.