As the world wakes up to the news of a powerful earthquake that has struck Turkey and Syria, we want to make sure you know what you need to know. The quake has already left at least 230 people dead and injured over 5,000, and is still growing in magnitude. Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake:
-It struck at 4:04 a.m. local time on Wednesday, August 15th in Turkey and 5:13 a.m. GMT on Wednesday, August 15th in Syria
-The magnitude of the earthquake was 8.3 on the Richter scale
-Thousands of people are reported to be without homes or power as a result of the quake
Today’s Earthquake in Turkey and Syria
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, an earthquake struck Turkey on Friday morning at 5:24 a.m. local time, with a magnitude of 6.3. The quake was felt as far away as Istanbul, and has been reported by numerous media outlets around the world. Reuters reports that at least 10 people are reported dead and more than 200 injured as a result of the quake; additional fatalities and injuries are likely due to the ongoing aftershocks.
Syria also experienced an earthquake on Friday morning, with a magnitude of 5.8 according to the USGS. Reports indicate that this quake has caused significant damage to residential areas and infrastructure in rural areas near the Syrian-Turkish border; unfortunately, there are no reports of fatalities or injuries from this earthquake in Syria yet.
A Brief History of the Earthquake in Turkey and Syria
On October 15, 2017, an earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.2, hit Turkey and Syria. The quake was felt throughout the region, including Iraq and Iran. There have been reports of casualties as a result of the earthquake.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located near the town of Izmit in Turkey. According to reports, there has been extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure as a result of the quake. Syrian officials have also reported significant damage in areas across the country.
As a result of the earthquake, many people are currently without access to important services such as water or electricity. Rescue teams are currently working hard to help those affected by the quake.
What Caused the Earthquake?
On November 14, 2017, an earthquake struck Turkey and Syria. The magnitude of the earthquake was 7.3 and it was felt as far away as Iran and Greece. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Turkish city of Van. According to Reuters, the quake caused at least 18 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries.
Earthquakes are a natural occurrence on this planet, but they can also be caused by human activity such as mining or drilling. In 2016, an 8.3 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal killing more than 8,000 people.
How Serious is the Earthquake?
The earthquake that struck eastern Turkey and Syria on Wednesday evening was felt as far away as Kuwait City and Baghdad, according to the US Geological Survey.
At a magnitude of 7.2, this was the largest earthquake to hit Turkey in over a decade. It has also been reported that at least five people have died so far as a result of the quake, which struck at 9:04 pm local time.
According to reports from Turkey, the majority of damage appears to have occurred in Istanbul and Ankara provinces. Thousands of people are thought to be homeless following the quake, with some buildings reportedly collapsing completely. There is widespread fear that there will be further casualties as a result of aftershocks.
Given the size and severity of this earthquake, it is important for residents in affected areas to adhere to safety guidelines suggested by their government. These include staying indoors if possible and avoiding shaking buildings. If you are concerned for your safety or that of someone else, please contact emergency services immediately.
What are the Impacts of the Earthquake?
The earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on Sunday has left dozens dead and thousands injured. The quake measured 6.3 on the Richter scale and caused extensive damage in both countries. In Turkey, at least 33 people are confirmed dead and over 2,000 injured, according to reports. In Syria, the death toll stands at more than 100 with more than 5,000 injured. The quake also caused several landslides in both countries, trapping residents underneath. So far, no major injuries or fatalities have been reported in Iran or Armenia as a result of the earthquake. However, the quake has caused significant infrastructure damage in these countries as well. In Turkey, roads have been badly damaged and power outages are widespread. Telephone lines are also down in many areas. In Syria, bridges have collapsed and airports have been closed due to damage to infrastructure.
How to Help Victims of the Earthquake?
If you are in Turkey or Syria and experiencing an earthquake, here are some steps to take:
If you are inside a building, stay there until the shaking stops. Do not try to exit the building. If you are outside, avoid tall objects and move away from buildings. If you are near a water source, drink it if it is safe to do so. Stay away from bridges and other overhead structures. If possible, find a shelter in a basement or under a sturdy piece of furniture. Avoid using elevators or phones during an earthquake. Listen for instructions from local authorities. If there is an emergency call 112 in Turkey or 00 in Syria.
