February 06, 2023, Ottawa: Canada stood ready to help in the aftermath of a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday, with over 2,300 people reported dead.
Authorities feared the death toll could climb as rescue workers and residents searched the rubble of toppled buildings for survivors.
Trudeau said the reports and images from Turkey and Syria were “devastating.” “Canada stands ready to provide assistance,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these major earthquakes, and our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones.”
The U.S. Geological Survey measured Monday’s quake at 7.8, with a depth of 18 kilometres. Hours later, a 7.5 magnitude quake struck more than 100 kilometres away.
According to a USGS seismologist, the second jolt was considered an aftershock because it took place on the same fault line as the first.
Global Affairs Canada did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday about whether any Canadians were affected.
