IRC ready to respond to devastating earthquake in Turkey

The International Rescue Committee's Emergency Response Team is on standby to aid survivors of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Turkey on Sunday, killing nearly 300 people.

The cities of Ercis and Van were hit hardest by the massive quake, which collapsed some 970 buildings and damaged thousands more. The death toll is expected to rise by the hundreds as rescuers continue to search for people trapped amid the rubble.

The Turkish government, working in concert with the Turkish Red Crescent Society, quickly deployed search and rescue teams and relief supplies to the devastated region. IRC president George Rupp has contacted the Turkish ambassador in Washington to offer the IRC’s assistance in the ongoing disaster relief effort.

“The IRC will stay in close contact with Turkish authorities and local aid organizations to target relief where it is needed the most,” said Bob Kitchen, the IRC’s director of emergency preparedness and response.

IRC Emergency Response Team members are always ready to deploy to a crisis within 72 hours to deliver lifesaving aid.