February 6th earthquake: Current situation analysis and needs assessment – Research report

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Purpose And Background

Due to its geographical location, Türkiye lies within active seismic fault lines, leading to its frequent encounter with large-scale earthquakes. Since the 1500s, numerous earthquakes with a magnitude of 7 or higher have occurred in Türkiye. Especially in the twentieth century, earthquakes have caused significant destructive loss of life and property. Notably, on February 6, 2023, two major earthquakes measuring 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude, respectively, were experienced at different times, making it the most devastating earthquake disaster in recent years, considering the extent of damage and losses incurred.

On February 6, 2023, earthquakes measuring 7.6, centered in Pazarcık district, and Elbistan, heavily affected several provinces in Türkiye, including Adana, Adıyaman, Kahramanmaraş, Kilis, Hatay, Osmaniye, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Diyarbakır, Malatya, and Elâzığ, as well as neighboring countries. The intensity of the earthquake, particularly in Kahramanmaraş, caused extensive destruction, damage, and loss of life.

The earthquake resulted in the displacement of many people, with earthquake victims seeking shelter in temporary locations, bringing the total affected population to over 13 million. Additionally, the earthquake occurring in severe winter weather conditions turned the situation into a serious crisis, emphasizing the importance of conducting needs assessments and implementing intervention plans based on those needs to address the urgent requirements of the affected population.

The increase in casualties and the number of people affected by disasters during post-earthquake periods since 1950 underscore the significance of taking new measures and aactions to expedite the recovery process in disasters. Based on this need, this study was conducted to contribute to research aimed at accelerating post-disaster recovery processes and to analyze the current situation and needs of the earthquake victims in Kahramanmaraş. The study was prepared with the support of specialists from different units within the Turkish Red Crescent Directorate of Community Services and the Turkish Red Crescent Academy Presidency. It shares the results of field research conducted in disaster-affected areas.