7.8 magnitude earthquake hits central Turkey hard

On February 6, 2023, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Gaziantep along with nine other Turkish provinces (Hatay, Osmaniye, Adyaman, Diyarbakr, Sanliurfa, Kahramanmaras, Kilis, Adana, Malatya). There have been a number of powerful aftershocks, and the Turkish government has declared a state of emergency at the highest level. The Southeast of Turkey should be avoided, and you should heed local authorities’ recommendations.

This earthquake is expected to have a high humanitarian impact based on the magnitude and the affected population and their vulnerability.

Airports at risk, if affected, are listed below: Kahramanmaras (KCM), Gaziantep (GZT), Adiyaman (ADF), Malatya (MLX). Gaziantep airport is currently unavailable for departures and arrivals due to the earthquake. Humanitarian flights will be excluded.

To keep communication channels open for emergency services, only use your phone in an emergency. Check for wounds and make a note of your surroundings after an earthquake. If you are inside, turn off the water, gas, and power and leave the area.