Harmful earthquake hits Turkey, Syria; AHS students share opinions
by Odalis O.G.
On February 6, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake that was one of the strongest ever recorded in Turkey struck, killing over 40,000 people and causing chaos in a heavily populated area in southern Turkey and northern Syria.
This earthquake caused the collapse of nearly 3,000 buildings in Turkey causing extensive damage and killing thousands in Turkey and in neighboring Syria.
The death and injury toll is projected to climb because of the region's high population density, particularly among Syrian refugees who frequently reside in makeshift or otherwise less strong homes.
The Syrian Civil Defense, also known as the White Helmets, said Wednesday that more than 1,930 people had died and another 2,950 had been injured in opposition-held regions, bringing the country's death toll from the earthquake to at least 3,180, and the total death toll to more than 19,350.
Mr. Shearer, a biology teacher at AHS, said, “It's scary how they were prepared for earthquakes and still experienced so much damage."
Aid agencies are working to help millions of people with food, tents, warm winter clothing, blankets, mattresses, medical supplies and some nations have already committed to sending aid. The U.K. promised to send a team of 76 search and rescue specialists and rescue dogs to Turkey.
“I think the earthquake in Turkey and Syria is terrible. Thousands, tens of thousands people died and they're still searching for others in the disaster,” said Karla S, a senior at AHS. Aside from that Karla S also added, “I think it's obviously a terrible event that happens but it is also showing how people come together to help one another in this need. I think it just shows that people are willing to come together and see the good side of Turkey and Syria.”
AHS students and teachers think that the disaster that occurred in Turkey and Syria is sad and terrible for the people who were in the earthquake. Many people lost their family members in the earthquake, and they hope that many people will donate to the people who lost things. They need help because of the earthquake.
According to the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), 4.6 million children are affected by the earthquake in Turkey, with more than 2.5 million children affected in Syria. According to the World Health Organization, 26 million people in both countries require assistance. The repercussions were so large that tremors were registered as far away as Cyprus, Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan.
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