Turkey and Syria earthquake in the early hours of Monday has claimed around 4,300 lives. A 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria is turning out to be one of the most deadly in decades as it has claimed thousands of lives.
The epicenter of the 7.8-magnitude quake was 23 km east of Nurdagi in Gaziantep, at a depth of 24.1 km, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake which is extremely powerful is followed by second and third waves of the temblor.
The devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey’s southern province of Kahramanmaras at 4.17 a.m. on Monday. It was followed by a 6.4-magnitude temblor a few minutes later in Gaziantep province. At around 1.30 P.M, a third tremor with 7.5 magnitude hit Kahramanmaras. But, the third was not an aftershock according to the officials.
There were more than 60 aftershocks recorded throughout the day.
The highest death toll is recorded on the Turkish side of the border. Bitter winter storms also added to the worsening of the situation. The climatic conditions also added to the death raise. This is the place where around 4 million Syrians were taking shelter due to the war in Syria. Many of them were living in Southern Turkey in overcrowded conditions. The disaster has left millions of people without homes and food.
As of Tuesday morning, the death toll in Turkey recorded a number – 2,921. In Syria, the number stood at 1,451 as per the official reports. Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) declared that at least 15,834 persons were injured and 7,840 were rescued alive. AFAD also confirmed that 5,606 buildings got destroyed.
A total of 14,720 people are currently providing assistance in the disaster zone, including military personnel.
In the regions of Aleppo, Hama, Latakia, and Tartus of Syria, 711 deaths were recorded.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the toll may rise dramatically as search and rescue operations are still continuing in both countries.
Turkey and Syria Earthquake – World country’s reaction
India on Monday announced two teams of NDRF comprising 100 personnel with specially trained dog squads and necessary equipment. Medical teams are also ready with trained doctors and paramedics with essential medicines.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced $10 million aid.
New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced $1.5 million aid.
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol to send rescuers and emergency medical items to Turkey.
The European Union to send rescue teams to Turkey.
France, Germany, and Israel have also pledged to help.
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered help to both Turkey and Syria.
7 earthquakes with magnitude 7.0 or greater have struck Turkey in the past 25 years.
US President Joe Biden spoke earlier to his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, reaffirming the readiness of the United States to provide any and all needed assistance.
A host of countries have offered support and sent rescue workers to the disaster-hit region.