Google News
The death toll after the earthquakes along the Turkey-Syria border continues to rise, with the current numbers exceeding 7,900. The rescue teams, consisting of multinational groups, are facing challenges as they accelerate their efforts in the midst of the harsh weather conditions.
The cold and stormy weather is also making it difficult for survivors, many of whom are left without shelter and are struggling to stay safe outside
.Tens of Thousands Injured
Tens of thousands of people have been injured in the earthquakes, with the numbers expected to increase as the rescue efforts continue.
The situation is particularly dire in Syria, where the healthcare system and infrastructure have been severely damaged by the ongoing conflict. According to the Ministry of Health and the rescue organization White Helmets, at least 1,932 people have died and over 3,749 have been injured in the areas controlled by both the government and the opposition.
Rescue Teams Face Challenges
The weather conditions are becoming increasingly dangerous, making it difficult for survivors to find safety and for rescue teams to reach the missing. As the scale of the humanitarian crisis becomes clearer, aid agencies are warning of the difficulties in finding survivors and treating the injured.
State of Emergency Declared
In response to the crisis, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared a three-month state of emergency in the 10 hardest-hit provinces. As aid continues to pour in from around the world, the search and rescue teams are working tirelessly to save as many lives as possible.
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.