On February 6, 2023, an earthquake of 7.8 hit southeast Turkey and northwest Syria, leaving both countries in disarray and panic as the death toll climbs, currently passing 46,000.  

Over 47,000 buildings have been destroyed or damaged, causing more than 87,000 injuries and deaths. These people continue to be rescued alive even after 10 days of being trapped.

“Rescue worker Aydinli and his team rescued a 13-year-old boy named Mustafa from the rubble 228 hours – nearly 10 days – after the quake,” CNN said. “Search and rescue teachings have historically emphasized the ‘golden 48 hours’ after a building collapse in which the chance of live rescues is highest.”

Most of those rescued need medical support, food and shelter due to their destroyed homes.

“Aid agencies are working to help millions of people with food, tents, warm winter clothing, blankets, mattresses, medical supplies and mental health support,” NPR said. “There’s concern, though, that needs arising from other crises, like the war in Ukraine and Syria’s own protracted civil war, could affect that assistance over time.”

Syria, in particular, has suffered the effects of the earthquake on top of other crises already pressing the nation.

“Hundreds of thousands have been displaced across a region already beset by turmoil from the nearly 12-year conflict in Syria and the ongoing refugee crisis,” World Vision said. 

The US and other countries have stepped in to help Turkey and Syria in their time of need.

“U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the United States would send an additional $100 million to help people affected by the earthquakes,” the Washington Post said. “The Biden administration pledged $85 million shortly after the quakes.”

This money and supplies provided by other countries will help Turkey and Syria temporarily but the long-term effects of this earthquake still stand. 

“We experienced the biggest disaster of our history,” Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said. “If you go on-site, you will understand how grave the situation is compared to what you see on your TV screens.”