theopenjournalOn April 28th, 2021, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Turkey-Syria border, triggering landslides and collapsed buildings. In towns like Nizip and other nearby areas, many residents were injured or killed in the quake. As the search for survivors continues, Governor Rahmi Dogan of Hatay Province has confirmed that there are still people under the rubble. This article will discuss the latest developments on the Turkey-Syria border following this devastating earthquake, as well as shed light on how you can help those affected by this tragedy.
New strong earthquakes were registered
As of late Wednesday night, the death toll from two powerful earthquakes that hit Turkey’s southeastern province of Hatay and neighboring Syria has risen to 38, with many people still feared trapped under the rubble.
The first quake, measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale, struck at 10:41 p.m. local time on Tuesday some 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of Telbisin in Hatay province, according to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). It was followed by a second temblor measuring 5.9 that hit the same area at 11:23 p.m., AFAD said in a statement released early Wednesday morning.
The declaration of Governor Hatay
On Sunday, two powerful earthquakes struck the Turkey-Syria border region, causing widespread damage and leaving many people trapped under rubble. Governor Mehmet Celalettin Lekesiz of Hatay province has declared a state of emergency in the area.
“Our teams are working tirelessly to rescue those who are trapped and provide relief to those who have been affected,” Governor Lekesiz said in a statement. “I urge everyone to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities.”
The full extent of the damage is not yet known, but it is expected to be significant.
In order to effectively manage the emergency situation, Governor Lekesiz has declared a state of emergency in Hatay province. This includes suspending all non-essential services, providing financial support for those affected, and mobilizing search and rescue teams.
The governor has also requested additional support from the national government and other organizations in order to respond to the crisis. The government is currently working on a comprehensive response plan.
We ask everyone to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities in order to stay safe.
The count of victims
Doğan said that the quakes, which began late on Friday night, had caused widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure in the province. He added that search-and-rescue teams were working to find people who were believed to be trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings.
The Turkish Red Crescent has also deployed teams to the affected area to provide assistance to those in need.
Cover image: This file is licensed under the Creative CommonsAttribution 4.0 International license. Attribution: Tasnim News Agency