Deadly Aftershocks Continue in Turkey and Syria: Latest Updates on the Growing Death Toll from Devastating Earthquakes

 

"Catastrophic Consequences: Turkey and Syria Quake Death Toll Nears 1,500"

The recent earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria have resulted in a devastating loss of life, with the combined death toll reaching an alarming 1,400. Turkish authorities have reported 912 fatalities, 5,383 injuries, and the collapse of 2,818 buildings. Meanwhile, Syria's health ministry confirmed that over 326 have perished and 1,042 have sustained injuries. The situation in Syria's north-west, where rescue services in non-government controlled areas put the death toll at 221, only adds to the already devastating toll, bringing the total confirmed casualties to 1,459.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) Addresses Devastation Caused by Turkey and Syria Earthquakes

The IRC has voiced concern over the impact of the earthquakes that recently struck Turkey and Syria, especially in areas that host a high number of displaced and vulnerable families. Tanya Evans, the Syria country director for IRC, stated that the quake is a crisis within multiple crises, as temperatures drop below zero, leaving thousands exposed. Women and children are particularly at risk of exploitation and abuse in case of displacement. With health facilities already strained, many in northwest Syria do not have access to the healthcare they desperately need.

Evans calls on the international community to increase funding for the Syria humanitarian response plan, which is currently underfunded with less than 50% of the required $4 billion. The IRC is working to help those in need and urges the world to take action and support the humanitarian response effort.