On February 6, 2023, a very strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 to 8.0 Mw occurred in the territory of Turkey. The affected areas were primarily the Turkish cities and provinces of Gaziantep, Malatya, Adiyaman, and Diyarbakir. It is one of the strongest earthquakes in the history of Turkey since around 1900, comparable to the 1939 earthquake in Erzincan, which also had a magnitude of 7.8 Mw.
According to the available information, over 50,000 people have tragically lost their lives. High-rise buildings that are typically designed to withstand earthquakes, as well as hospitals, have collapsed. The estimated number of collapsed structures is around 150,000, and approximately the same number of buildings will need to be demolished due to severe structural damage. It is estimated that around 500,000 residential units have been destroyed in the collapsed buildings, leaving approximately 1.5 million people in Turkey without shelter!
This situation is an unimaginable humanitarian catastrophe, and although the media may not be reporting on it extensively anymore, approximately 500,000 people have been relocated, especially to coastal recreational areas, while others have found alternative housing or remain in temporary accommodations. Transport to these affected areas from Central Europe is neither easy nor cheap. However, we must continue to assist the affected Turkish population, and we appeal to all of you for support and contributions towards the delivery of non-perishable food, medical supplies, and technical elements to ensure the stability of temporary housing!
Bank details for Turkey:
MONETA Money Bank, account No. 256368837/0600, identifier 202304
IBAN: CZ24 0600 0000 0002 5636 8837
SWIFT: AGBACZPP
