Monday, 06 february 2023, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook the countries of Turkey and Syria, leaving hundreds dead and thousands injured. The damage was catastrophic and the stories of those affected were heart-wrenching. In this blog post, we will explore how the earthquake affected both countries and why this situation is so heartbreaking for those involved. From the devastation to the response from both governments to aid their citizens—it’s clear that this disaster has had a lasting impact, one that will take years to fully recover from.
The Turkey-Syria Earthquake: What Happened?
A devastating earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale hit eastern Turkey, killing over 1500 and counting and injuring thousands more. The quake was felt as far away as Damascus, Syria, where buildings collapsed and many people were killed or injured.
The epicenter of the quake was the major city and provincial capital of Turkey, Gaziantep, was affected by the initial tremor, according to the US Geological Survey. The town was largely destroyed by the quake, with hundreds of buildings collapsed or heavily damaged. Many people were trapped under the rubble, and rescuers worked for days to try to reach them.
In Syria, the quake caused extensive damage to buildings in Damascus and other cities. Dozens of people were reported killed and many more injured. The Syrian government declared a state of emergency in affected areas and sent troops to help with rescue efforts.
The Turkey-Syria earthquake is one of the deadliest earthquakes of the new year . Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
The Aftermath of the Earthquake
The death toll from the earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on February 6, has risen to over 1,500, with thousands more injured and many still missing. The quake was the deadliest to hit the region in more than a decade. Rescue workers are still searching for survivors in the rubble of buildings that collapsed in the 7.8 magnitude quake. The earthquake destroyed or damaged hundreds of buildings, including schools, hospitals and homes. Many people are still living in tents or sleeping in cars, afraid to return to their homes because of aftershocks. People affected by the earthquake need our help.
After 2,300 people declared dead, the rescue mission still continues
The death toll from the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Sunday has risen to 2,300 people, with search and rescue missions still underway.
In Turkey, 1,600 people have been confirmed dead and over 5,000 injured, while in Syria the death toll stands at 700. Most of the deaths in both countries have been caused by collapsing buildings.
Around 20,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged in Turkey and Syria combined, leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. Many are living in temporary shelters or out in the open air as aftershocks continue to hit the region.
The United Nations has released $10 million from its emergency fund to help with the relief effort, and many countries have also sent aid. The Turkish Red Crescent is leading the response in Turkey, while the Syrian Arab Red Crescent is doing so in Syria.
Conclusion
The Turkey-Syria earthquake disaster is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left many people in the region homeless and traumatized. Despite the best efforts of aid organizations, much still needs to be done to ensure those affected can rebuild their lives. We must continue to support relief efforts in order for them to provide the necessary care and assistance needed by those who have been affected. Our thoughts are with all of those affected by this terrible disaster and we hope they find respite soon.
