Turkey Earthquakes: At Least 217 Dead and Hundreds Missing
Posted by Leisa Amorosa on Monday, October 24, 2011 Under: Earthquakes
7.2 earthquake causes massive collapses in Turkey.
Sky News HD: At least 217 people have been killed and hundreds more remain trapped under rubble after a powerful earthquake struck southeast Turkey. Dozens of buildings were destroyed by the 7.2 magnitude quake near the city of Van and the town of Ercis, close to the Iranian border. Tens of thousands of people rushed into the streets after the first tremor and were digging with shovels and their bare hands to free those trapped. US scientists recorded over 100 aftershocks in eastern Turkey within 10 hours of the quake, including one with a magnitude of 6.0. Authorities advised people to stay away from damaged homes, warning they could collapse in the aftershocks. Interior minister Idris Naim Sahin said at least 100 people were killed in Van, 117 others died in Ercis, and around 1090 were injured. Officials estimate the death toll could rise to 1,000, as many people remain unaccounted for. Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay said, "Around 10 buildings have collapsed in the city of Van and around 25 or 30 have collapsed in Ercis, including a dormitory." Around 1,275 rescue teams from 38 provinces have been sent to the region, officials said, and troops were also assisting search and rescue efforts. In Ercis, heavy machinery was halted and people were told to stay quiet, as rescuers listened out for sounds within the rubble. Residents lit campfires to keep warm as the spent the night outdoors, while others took refuge in tents set up in a sports stadium. A nurse at a public hospital said hospital workers were treating the wounded in the hospital garden because the building was badly damaged. International offers of aid poured in from NATO, China, Japan, the US, Azerbaijan, European countries and Israel. Mr. Erdogan thanked the governments who had offered help, but said Turkey could handle the disaster relief efforts without assistance. Foreign Secretary William Hague said, "The earthquake in eastern Turkey has caused immense destruction, resulting in terrible loss of life. I send my deepest condolences to the friends and loved ones of those who have died or have been affected. My thoughts are with those who are anxiously awaiting news from the rescue efforts. The UK is ready to provide assistance, in line with any request from the Turkish authorities. We stand with Turkey at this difficult time."
Commentary: This is very tragic and many are suffering in Turkey right now. We need to pray for their relief, as well as the condition of their souls. God loves them; He loves us all, and wants all to come to repentance. I was very surprised, in the wake of Turkey's recent alignment with Gaza and threats against Israel, that Israel extended their offer of help in Turkey's time of need. This is the typical response of Israel, even to his enemies. Turkey has been issuing threats against Israel and I am not surprised by their sudden shaking. The Word of God tells us, regarding Israel: "I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you, and in you (Israel) all the families of the earth will be blessed" Genesis 12:3.
In : Earthquakes
Tags: "turkey earthquake death toll"