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Rebecca Guida Valente & Lara Alchorne

Syria and Turkey Earthquake

Known as the most active earthquake zone in the world, Turkey has been suffering through a series of earthquakes believed to be the most devastating in the past 20 years since the 6th of February of this year. Trending since then, the earthquake is responsible for countless deaths and injuries amongst citizens, and even, amongst stars.


In the subsequent week to the natural disaster, more than 45,000 people were declared dead across both Turkey and Syria, with 264,000 buildings in Turkey demolished. Countless victims have still not been found beneath the rubbles, however, rescue workers are attempting to locate them through detecting any small signs of life.


Unfortunately, this natural disaster struck within the early hours of the morning when citizens were still resting and indoors. Furthermore, Dr. Carmen Solana (volcanologist at the University of Portsmouth) articulated that the affected territory had not suffered a major earthquake in over two centuries, nor was it given any alarming hints. Thus, the extent of precaution and preparedness was, lamentably, trifling, if not nonexistent.


Succinctly, our planet’s crust consists of several bits known as plates that curl up beside one another. However, when these plates gradually rub up against each other, earthquakes occur. Although the bits commonly attempt to move, they are impeded by the friction of grinding against the adjacent plate. Hence, this pressure will eventually escalate until one plate abruptly jolts, consequently stimulating the ground to shake. Thus in this earthquake, it was the Arabian plate, endeavoring to move northwards, that rubbed up against the Anatolian plate.


Christian Atsu, the Ghanaian winger, is one amongst this natural disaster’s victims. He was found dead beneath the demolished construction where he resided in Hatay. Prior to this, the 31-year-old football player had been missing since the quake occurred. Publicly, the Premier League has already expressed their condolences.


This event particularly worries aid agencies, as of now, more than 4 million people rely on humanitarian services, many of which were supplied by Brazil. The country has sent 42 people, those of which include 34 firefighters and medical and civil defense specialists, as well as sniffer dogs. According to Brazil’s Ministry Regional of Development the country has also supplied six tons of equipment to assist in searches and to support teams during their mission, alongside 750kg worth of emergency items.


Whilst this tragedy is undoubtedly devastating, there are numerous sites receiving donations that endeavor to assist the victims of this natural disaster. In times like these, it is essential to remain optimistic and, if possible, to help those in need.

Image Source: CBC News












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