Turkey Earthquake

Desperate Search for Survivors Amid Rubble: Turkey hit by Devastating 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake

19:46 06 February 2023

An earthquake struck the south of Turkey, causing widespread destruction and leading to the deployment of search and rescue teams. Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD) has requested international aid through the European Union’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC). The World Health Organization has activated its emergency medical teams in the affected areas to provide assistance. The governor of Gaziantep has advised the public to remain calm and wait outside their homes, while President Erdogan has noted that NATO and the European Union have offered help.

 

The earthquake was felt in many parts of the country and rescue workers are frantically searching for survivors in the rubble. The areas that have been hit hardest are relatively lower income regions, with a sizable refugee population. The US has expressed concern and offered to provide any necessary assistance. The situation is being closely monitored and all relevant units are on alert, under the coordination of AFAD. The news of the earthquake has led to messages of support from world leaders.