Earthquakes hits Turkey, Syria; death toll reaches 1,900

Southeastern Turkey and Northern Syria saw a trail of catastrophe and destruction Monday morning as a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the nations, taking the lives of at least 1,900 so far, according to media reports. The toll is expected to rise as search operations are underway to evacuate hundreds still believed to be trapped under rubble and debris.

In a televised address after the earthquake, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, “Because the debris removal efforts are continuing in many buildings in the earthquake zone, we do not know how high the number of dead and injured will rise…Our hope is that we recover from this disaster with the least loss of life possible.”

According to media reports, a second earthquake also occurred Monday evening after the first that occurred pre-dawn. The epicentre of the first earthquake is believed to be near the city of Gaziantep with a 7.8 magnitude, while the second is believed to have the epicentre in the Kahramanmaras province with a magnitude of 7.5.

Bone-chilling visuals have since circulated on social media supposedly of the catastrophe and destruction caused by the earthquakes.

Taking to Twitter, US President Joe Biden stated, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Turkiye and Syria. I have directed my team to continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkiye and provide any and all needed assistance.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter to express, “Deeply pained to learn that the devastating earthquake has also affected Syria. My sincere condolences to the families of the victims. We share the grief of Syrian people and remain committed to provide assistance and support in this difficult time.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted,”The reports and images from Turkey and Syria are devastating. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these major earthquakes, and our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones. Canada stands ready to provide assistance.”