Death toll rises to over 18 thousand in Türkiye

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The Disaster and Emergency Presidency (AFAD) announced that as of 08:30 am. today 18,432 people have lost their lives and 74,242 people were injured in the February 6 earthquakes.

According to the written statement issued by AFAD this morning, 1509 aftershocks followed the 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude earthquakes centered in the Pazarcık and Elbistan districts of Maraş.

Rescue teams from 66 countries

Vice President Fuat Oktay announced last night that there are rescue teams from 66 countries, with 4,931 rescuers working and some more 1756 to arrive.

100 thousand tents were distributed, and the number of people who accommodate in dormitories, pensions, sports centers, or similar buildings reached over 500 thousand.

There are no logistics problems to affect the field and no closed roads Oktay told and all airports except for the Hatay airport, where works continue, were in use.

Natural gas and electricity

There were problems in 9 natural gas pipelines, which were all fixed Oktay announced.

They were also able to provide electricity to all the disaster regions, the Vice President informed but were going to do so in a controlled manner. The streetlights will be provided electricity first so as to facilitate the rescue work.

Oktay also told that they were open to proposals for medical support if it is going to be provided in the country. (AS/PE)