The EU expressed on Saturday 25 January its full solidarity and “condolences to the people and authorities of Turkey” mourning a powerful earthquake that struck the east of the country on Friday evening, leaving at least 36 dead and 1,600 injured, according to a provisional assessment.
Putting its money where its mouth is, the European Commission immediately provided the Turkish authorities with satellite maps from the European Copernicus programme to help first responders on the ground.
“Our 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) has been in immediate contact with the Turkish Civil Protection authorities”, said European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič.
“We stand ready to provide further support”, he added. Satellite maps provide a very detailed view of the damage in the disaster areas. The Copernicus programme was activated as soon as the Turkish request for assistance was received. The hope of finding survivors is dwindling, 48 hours after this earthquake of 6.7 on the Richter scale and in freezing temperatures (-10°). (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)