More than 3,400 people have been killed and thousands injured by a huge earthquake which struck south-eastern Türkiye, near the Syrian border, early in the morning of Monday, 6 February.
The initial 7.8 magnitude quake struck close to Gaziantep, close to the Türkiye-Syria border. It was followed by a 7.5-magnitude aftershock just hours later. Dozens of tremors and aftershocks were felt in Türkiye and Syria as well as in other parts of Europe and the Middle East.
Search and rescue is now underway, but massive damage to infrastructure, including roads and telecommunications, poses a significant challenge.
UNHCR teams are assessing the situation and stand ready to support the emergency response. In Syria, we are already distributing supplies, including thermal blankets and mattresses, but we need your help to cover the immense need.
Refugees and displaced people are among the most vulnerable in the aftermath of these quakes. Türkiye hosts the world’s largest refugee population – many living in Gaziantep – while Syrians have endured almost 12 years of conflict. At the same time, the region is experiencing a severe winter, with snow and icy winds hindering relief efforts.
Please donate now. Your gift can provide life-saving supplies to families who’ve lost everything.
