A huge earthquake has hit Turkey and Syria causing widespread damage and loss of life.
Firstly, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck in the early hours of Monday morning. This was followed by a second earthquake in the same region, which had a magnitude of 7.5
The first quake was so strong it was felt in various Turkish cities, including the capital Ankara, as well as in neighbouring countries Syria, Lebanon, and Israel.
Experts believe that around 20,000 people may have died, but this number could rise. At least 2,800 buildings are thought to have been destroyed in the first quake, leaving thousands of people could be left without shelter.
Scientists believe the first earthquake could be Turkey’s largest on record.
Help is being offered from around the world, including New Zealand. So far New Zealand has committed $ 1.5 million in aid to the region.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has spoken to the country on TV. He said search and rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the areas affected.
