Magnitude 6.4 earthquake smashes Turkey just two weeks after devastating tremor which killed more than 44,000 people
Turkey has been struck by another earthquake just weeks after it was devastated by one that has so far claimed 44,000 lives.
A 6.4 magnitude earthquake has hit southern Turkey near the town of Antakya leaving some residents injured.
Although less powerful than the 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes on February 6, it could be felt as far as Syria, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon.
The most recent earthquake, which was followed by a 5.8 magnitude tremor, caused severe damage to buildings which has left people trapped according to reports on the ground.
No fatalities have been recorded yet but a small number of people have been taken to hospitals.
The quake that struck the region earlier this month has so far claimed the lives of 44,000 people.
More than a million people have been left homeless as a result of the shocking earthquakes, with rescue efforts only just beginning.
The World Health Organisation has estimated 26 million people in the affected regions are in need of humanitarian aid.
The economic cost is expected to far exceed several billion dollars and both countries have openly requested foreign aid assistance.
FLASH: Two new earthquakes have hit the Turkey-Syria Border, AGAIN. A 6.4 magnitude earthquake followed by a 5.8 tremor shook the Hatay area, located south of Turkey. pic.twitter.com/0nwNKYht4B
— Steve Hanke (@steve_hanke) February 20, 2023
Widespread support has been given to Turkey and Syria in particular, with the United States this week pledging a further $100 million.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the relief, which adds to the $85 million already given, during a tour of the devastated country.
The additional $100 million in aid will be equally divided between emergency refugee and migration funds and humanitarian assistance, with $50 million allocated to each.
The United States have led the charge in providing aid to the beleaguered countries, having also sent a search and rescue team, medical supplies and equipment.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has so far announced an initial $10 million humanitarian assistance package for Turkey and Syria.
Australia will give $7 million to Turkey, with $4 million of that going to Red Cross and Red Crescent partners to supply food and items such as tents and blankets.
The remaining $3 million will be allocated “as needs become clearer”.