As Turkish officials confirmed the death toll in Sunday afternoon's massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake has risen to 264, rescue teams worked frantically to sift through piles of rubble before time runs out for those trapped underneath. Floodlights were set up so rescuers could work throughout the night. The number of survivors pulled from the rubble so far is unclear.
The quake hit at a depth of 12.4 miles in the city of Tabanli, which is about 12 miles outside of the city of Van. At least 120 aftershocks followed. Van and the city of Ercis were the hardest hit areas with hundreds of buildings reportedly destroyed. Residents fled their homes after the initial temblor and many did not return, choosing instead to sleep in the streets and face near freezing temperatures.Interior Minister Idris Naim told reporters Monday that at least 264 people have been confirmed dead and another 1,300 people were injured. The death toll is expected to rise.
Meanwhile, aid from areas surrounding the quake zone began pouring in Monday. Military personnel joined rescue teams while trucks and planes carrying supplies began arriving in Ercis and Van.
President Barack Obama said the United States is “ready to assist” in aid efforts. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the brave men and women who are working to bring assistance to this stricken region. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Turkish ally in this difficult time, and are ready to assist the Turkish authorities," President Obama said in a statement.
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