Turkey-Syria Earthquake

CORE is assessing how to best support the needs of communities in Turkey and Syria most impacted by the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake.

Emergency Relief | 2023-now

What damage has the 2023 earthquake in Turkey and Syria caused?

On February 6, 2023, a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the southern Turkish city of Gaziantep, causing widespread devastation in southern Turkey, northwest Syria, and the surrounding region. It is ranked tied as the strongest earthquake to hit Turkey in modern history, and the deadliest quake worldwide in over a decade.

More than 41,000 deaths and more than 114,000 injuries have been reported as the toll of the initial earthquake, which was followed by an extraordinarily powerful 7.5-magnitude aftershock and hundreds of additional aftershocks, continues to be assessed. Critical infrastructure, roads, and the healthcare system have suffered extensive damage. Extreme cold poses an additional risk to those impacted and has been affecting rescue efforts.

Of the many in need are 4.1 million people in Northwest Syria who were already dependent on humanitarian support amid ongoing conflict and a cholera outbreak. An additional 4 million Syrian refugees in southern Turkey, 50,000 of whom are living in camps, also need support. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said 13 million of the country’s 85 million people have been affected.

What are the needs in Turkey and Syria following the earthquake?

The needs in Turkey and Syria are severe and extensive, particularly for those already vulnerable to crisis, including Syrians who have been displaced due to the country’s ongoing civil war. Primary needs identified by humanitarian relief organizations are:

Health: medical supplies, equipment, medication, mobile clinics, and psychosocial support

Shelter: temporary shelter, safe spaces for women and girls, collective centers, shelter repair and rehabilitation

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene: access to clean water and hygiene kits

Food & Essential Resources: ready-to-eat food, blankets, warm clothing, baby kits, and dignity kits

Cash Assistance

Debris Removal: heavy machinery

How is CORE helping support those impacted by the 2023 earthquake in Turkey and Syria?

CORE is identifying local and global partners and assessing how to best support the needs of communities in Turkey and Syria most impacted by the earthquake. We are exploring ways to provide cash assistance, health, and emergency relief where it is needed most.

You can help empower communities.

CORE’s response to the earthquake in Turkey and Syria and crises across the globe is made possible by your generosity. Together, we can support those who need it most.