16 February 2023 · anandamarga.org
Turkey and Syria Earthquake Response
In February 2023 two earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 and 7.6 struck Turkey and northern Syria, devastating the entire region, killing more than 47,000 people and affecting an estimated 23 million people.
Combined AMURT/AMURTEL volunteer teams have responded to the enormous catastrophe.
A team including experienced AMURT and AMURTEL coordinators arrived in Turkey within two days of the quake. They organized immediate psycho-social support in coordination with local stakeholders and are identifying urgent humanitarian needs in southeast Turkey, working with local volunteers.
In Syria, international aid operations are hampered, however two local AMURT and AMURTEL volunteer teams established bases in the Latakia area. They assess affected populations and distribute essential food and non-food items to survivors. Vulnerable families are in shock, many without shelter enduring freezing night temperatures. AMURT Lebanon volunteers assist daily Syria communications and with partners have secured an official supply route to affected areas in Syria.
