Monday’s powerful quakes struck a region of southern Türkiye and northern Syria where millions of displaced Syrians live, after nearly 12 years of war in their country.
“This is an absolute hammer blow for Syria’s displaced populations,” UNHCR Spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh said. “The refugees and those who have been displaced within Syria itself are already suffering from an economic crisis. We’re in the depths of winter. We’ve been seeing snowstorms.”
The death toll from the earthquakes has risen to more than 7000 as rescue teams continue to search the rubble of toppled buildings for survivors.
In Türkiye, UNHCR is working with Turkish authorities and other UN agencies to provide urgently requested support to both refugees and host communities, including kitchen sets, mattresses and tents.
In Syria, UNHCR has deployed 30,000 core relief item kits to hard hit areas of Aleppo, Homs and Tartous. The kits contain high thermal blankets, mattresses, kitchen sets, plastic sheeting, jerry cans and sleeping mats.
The UN Refugee Agency also stands ready to deliver thousands of tents and winter clothing to affected communities.
Australia for UNHCR CEO Trudi Mitchell said Australians have shown strong support for those affected.
“Over the last 24 hours we’ve seen overwhelming support from Australians. But more help is urgently needed to support people who have lost so much,” Ms Mitchell said.
“As little as $35 can provide a warm winter coat, gloves and boots to keep an earthquake survivor in Türkiye warm.”
“UNHCR’s life-saving work on the ground right now is only possible through the generosity of donors. I would like to thank Australians for their support.”
Australia for UNHCR media contact:
Alex Fisher: [email protected] 0419 183 568