On Wednesday, November 9th at 09:23 pm (local time), a 5.6-magnitude earthquake hit the region of Van, in eastern Turkey. According to the latest information, at least seven people have been killed and dozens others wounded during the tremor. Moreover, 25 buildings have collapsed in the area and several material damages have been reported across the province. Relief operations are still searching for survivors and the death toll is likely to increase.
This is the second strong quake to hit the region of Van in less than a month. On October 23rd, a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake devastated the region, leaving more than 600 deaths and causing extensive damages as some 2,000 buildings were destroyed. Since then, about 1,400 aftershocks have jolted the province of Van. Turkey is vulnerable to quakes as the country sits on major geological fault lines. In March 2010, an earthquake in the east killed 51 people. The deadliest tremor occurred in 1999, when a 7-magnitude quake stroke the north-west of the country leaving behind more than 20,000 people dead.
If an earthquake occurs while you are outside, move to an open space and avoid the proximity of buildings, walls, trees, bridges, streetlights as well as poles and cables. If you are inside, take immediately cover under a door, a desk or a solid table. Stay away from windows and avoid the proximity of glasses, mirrors and lamps. Do not use elevators. After the tremor, turn off all electrical and gas appliances, turn off the main electricity meter and refrain from smoking. Listen to the local media to obtain fresh news regarding the event and recommended behavior. After the initial tremor, be aware that aftershocks may occur. Monitor local media in order to get updated information and obey all recommendations given by local authorities.
