Destruction caused by the earthquake in Kahramanmaras, Turkey.
Photo: https://www.dec.org.uk
Thousands of buildings, including hospitals and schools, have collapsed and infrastructure has been badly damaged. Local responders are searching through the rubble for survivors.
Many people have been left without shelter in freezing winter conditions, with humanitarian needs expected to grow in the coming days. Access to clean water is likely to be a challenge, bringing the risk of waterborne diseases. There was already an outbreak of cholera in north-west Syria before the earthquake.
The first earthquake struck without warning in the early hours as people slept. In Turkey, tens of thousands of people have been injured. According to the Turkish government, 380,000 people have sought refuge in government shelters or hotels.
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has launched an appeal to raise urgent funds to help people affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria which have killed more than 11,000 people and injured many more.
How to donate:
Online: dec.org.uk
Phone: 0370 60 60 610
SMS: Text SUPPORT to 70787 to donate £10.
Post: Send a cheque to DEC Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA
Donate over the counter at any high street bank or post office.
