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The recent earthquakes of magnitudes 7.8 and 7.5 on the Richter scale have caused widespread destruction in the south of Turkey and north of Syria. So far, the death toll has reached over 2,000, and search and rescue operations are ongoing as many buildings have collapsed and people are still believed to be trapped in the rubble.
Heartbreaking Footage Emerges
Social media is filled with videos of the devastation caused by earthquakes. One such video shows the moment a large part of an apartment building's facade broke off and fell onto the street.
The footage captures the speed and force of the disaster, which occurred in mere moments and thankfully, no one was on the street at the time.
Horrific videos emerging from #tuerkiye of the devastating earthquake building crumbles down in mere seconds #Turkey #TurkeyEarthquake pic.twitter.com/485DYrHIKN — Amit Sahu (@amitsahujourno) February 6, 2023
Timeline of the Earthquakes
The first earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale, struck at 4:14 local time.
A second 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit the area around Kahramanmaras, north of Gaziantep, at 1:24 p.m. local time. These two powerful earthquakes have caused widespread devastation and have left many people without homes, shelter, and basic necessities.
Continued Search and Rescue Efforts
As the search and rescue operations continue, the local authorities and aid organizations are working tirelessly to provide assistance to those affected by the earthquakes. Emergency shelters have been set up, and aid is being distributed to those in need.
However, with the scale of the disaster, it will take time for the region to fully recover. A UK team of search and rescue specialists is expected to arrive in Turkey by 11 pm UK time, according to the Government. Foreign Office minister Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon told peers: "A UK international search and rescue team will be deployed and will commence lifesaving activity within the critical 72 hours.
They will depart via a charter flight from Birmingham at 1800 today and will arrive in Turkey by 2300 UK time tonight." The recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have caused immense damage and have left a trail of destruction in their wake.
The loss of life is devastating, and our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster. We hope that the search and rescue operations will continue to be successful, and that those affected will receive the support and assistance they need to recover from this tragedy.