Article Originally Published on February 10, 2023.
On Feb. 6 at 4 a.m, a major 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey and Syria. Southern Turkey and Northern Syria felt the brunt of the earthquake. After the initial earthquake, 100 aftershocks have been recorded, including a 7.5 magnitude aftershock that hampered rescue efforts.
As of Feb. 14, over 35,000 people have died in Southern Turkey and Northern Syria, with thousands more still trapped in the rubble. The earthquake destroyed over 5,000 building.
Earthquakes in Turkey
Turkey is located on the Anatolian Fault Lines; it is considered one of the most seismically active regions in the world. The region has recorded over 70 earthquakes of 6.5 magnitude or larger since 1900. In 1999, an earthquake struck Turkey along the Northern Anatolian fault line, 60 miles from Istanbul. It left over 17,000 people dead.
The movement of the Earth’s crust, also known as tectonic plates, causes seismic activity. The fault lines in Turkey are areas where tectonic plates move relative to other tectonic plates.
Delayed Response Hampering Rescue Efforts
Cold weather, a lack of heavy equipment, and a slow response from the Turkish government slowed rescue efforts. Rescuers pulled over 8,000 people out of the rubble according to Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay. Over 380,000 people have taken shelter in hotels and shelters.
The earthquake affected over 13 million people. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan declared a 3-month state of emergency in several provinces in Turkey. Over 70 countries are currently sending rescue teams and aid to Turkey.
Reuters reports that residents of affected areas have accused the Turkish government of a slow and inadequate response, citing a lack of equipment and lack of support.
According to the Syrian Civil Defense, who is leading efforts to help Syrians affected by the earthquake, foreign aid has not yet reached Northwestern Syria, which is under rebel-control. The Syrian government has blamed western sanctions for aid not yet reaching Northern Syria.
Responce from the International Community
According to NPR, U.N. Secretary-General Guterres said, “This is a moment in which everyone must make it very clear that no sanctions of any kind interfere with relief to the population of Syria at the moment.”
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan visited the affected areas on Feb. 8, admitting to a slow response from the Turkish government and promised to help the affected areas rebuild.
Al Jazeera reports that the critical period of 72 hours has passed, meaning that it will be harder for rescuers to find survivors in affected areas. Rescuers continue their search for survivors.
The Tampa Bay Times compiled a list of all the places around the Tampa Bay Area sending donations to affected areas.
