A massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake has struck Kahramanmaras Province in central Turkey, with tremors felt in at least six nearby provinces and as far as Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Georgia, and Romania. The quake occurred at 01:17 GMT on Monday and was recorded approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) underground. The earthquake was followed by dozens of aftershocks, with the strongest one registering a magnitude of 6.6.
The earthquake has caused widespread damage and devastation, with reports of numerous buildings collapsing across Turkey and Syria. The death toll is steadily rising as rescue workers continue their search for survivors. The quake was also felt in the capital of Beirut, as well as Damascus and Latakia in Syria.
This disaster serves as a harsh reminder of Turkey’s vulnerability to earthquakes, as the country is located in one of the world’s most active seismic zones. The region of Duzce suffered a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake in 1999, which claimed the lives of over 17,000 people and was the worst to hit Turkey in decades.
In light of this tragedy, our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and communities affected by the earthquake. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and providing support where needed. We will continue to update this report with the latest information as it becomes available.
Deadly Earthquake in Turkey could reach 10,000 fatalities: USGS
A devastating earthquake that struck southern Turkey on Monday has left a trail of destruction in its wake. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has estimated that the death toll from the disaster could reach as high as 10,000 people, with a 47% chance of it falling between 1,000 and 10,000, and a 27% chance of it being between 100 and 1,000. The USGS based its estimates on historical earthquakes in the region, the population exposed to the strongest shaking, and the vulnerability of structures in the hardest-hit zones.
“The population in this region resides in structures that are extremely vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though some resistant structures exist,” the USGS warned in a report. The report added that “high casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread.”
The disaster has not only resulted in human casualties but has also taken a significant toll on the economy. The USGS has estimated that economic losses could range from $1 billion to $10 billion, equivalent to 2% of Turkey’s GDP.
As rescue and relief efforts continue, the number of casualties is expected to rise. So far, over 500 people have been confirmed dead, and over 3,000 have been injured in Turkey and Syria, according to officials and state media.
