Disasters are a manifestation of collective karma.  However, people who act virtuously and accumulate merit, or who recite sincerely the name of Amitabha Buddha, can extricate themselves from this collective karma, thereby forming their own unique, non-collective karma.

       Reciting the Buddha’s name brings forth blessings.  When you recite Amitabha’s name, you are in his presence,  obtaining both peace and auspiciousness at once. 

(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Fojin)