News is slowly filtering in from Turkiye and Syria that on the morning of 21 February two more earthquakes hit already damaged areas. Though less intense than earlier events, they’ve compounded the existing stress, trauma and damage caused on 6 February, while pushing people back out on to the streets in dangerous numbers.
*Last updated: 21 Feb 4:55pm AEDT
In the early hours of 6 February, two powerful earthquakes struck southern Türkiye and northern Syria, devastating entire sections of cities and towns while people were sleeping.
Over 45,000 people have died, but the death toll is rising rapidly as rescue operations continue in the rain and snow.
Those who have survived must now face a freezing winter—without shelter, belongings, food to eat, or warm clothes to wear. We must act now.
Aftershocks following the 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes are ongoing, including two large earthquakes on 20 February. At least 90,000 buildings have been damaged or destroyed in Turkiye alone, leaving many people without shelter or basic supplies in the middle of winter.
Baptist World Aid is working with Christian Partners, including Baptist organisations, to provide emergency aid to families impacted by the earthquakes.
The full extent of damage is still not known. We are assessing what communities need as the situation unfolds, but your gift could help provide:
- Safe drinking water for people to prevent dehydration
- Items to help people stay warm, such as blankets and clothes
- Emergency shelter items to protect those who have lost their homes from harsh winter conditions
Please donate today, and join us as we respond to this escalating situation with an outpouring of love.
