Turkey's Deadly Earthquake: What, Why, and How to Help

    

Earthquakes have been a natural force feared by human beings since they were initially encountered. On February 6, 2023, a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook the Turkey/Syria area. Turkey, which sits on a major active fault line (the North Anatolian fault), is prone to earthquakes. according to Global News. Earthquakes are caused when two tectonic plates interact or push against each other. On February 6^th, the African, Anatolian (where Turkey sits), Arabian and Eurasian plates all interacted on the North Anatolian Fault, causing the disastrous earthquake.
 
Data derived by USA Today says that “authorities say the death toll has surpassed 11,000 and probably will keep climbing. An estimated 6,000 buildings were toppled”. Hundreds are still believed to be buried under the rubble. According to Brian Olson, who’s Twitter conversation was displayed by USA Today, “Yesterday's M7.8 earthquake in southern Turkey ruptured along segments of the East Anatolian Fault zone that had caused 3 previous strong quakes in the 18th & 19th centuries”. But this time, it was as if the quakes were combined because the magnitude was so high and the effects so deadly.
 
As humans and civil servants, it is our duty to help and assist others whenever and wherever possible. When disaster strikes, and help is needed, the more people that pitch in the better it will be. On February 6th, Turkey faced one of these disasters. A deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake killed and injured many and left many more homeless and starving. Countries like Canada, China, and many others have already begun to help by donating money, supplies, and sending volunteers. Doing such things can greatly help those in need.
 
Schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces can also host supply drives and other activities to help Turkey. For example, can host money drives and Fun Run type activities. They can also hold a supply drive for non-perishable food and collect soap and other materials. Another mellower activity would be to make kind cards to send to people who have been left homeless.