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Among The Rubble, Stands A Miracle

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In the span of about 45 seconds, the lives of thousands of Turkish people would change forever. On August 17th at approximately 3:02 am, an earthquake measuring between 7.4 and 7.8 on the Richter scale jolted northwestern Turkey. The initial quake followed with a series of up to 300 aftershocks measuring 5.5. The quake was centered in the industrial city of Izmit, with a population of one million. Izmit is approximately 55 miles east of Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city.

Recent reports have estimated the death toll to be at 12, 514 with at least 30,000 bodies still unaccounted for and believed to be still buried in the rubble. The number of buildings destroyed or damaged by the quake is more than 17,500.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, the Turkish government immediately declared a state of emergency, requesting international assistance. Since the quake, an estimated 2,526 international rescue and aid workers have come to Turkey. There has also been a large number of volunteers, as well as volunteer doctors and nurses who quickly responded to the relief effort.

The day after the quake struck, American Muslims of Turkish decent immediately mobilized and formed a new organization called the Turkish Relief Association (TRA) with the purpose of aiding the victims of the earthquake in Turkey. In conjunction with the Humanitarian Aid Foundation in Turkey, the TRA offered a toll free number for the general public to call in to offer assistance (1-877-TURKEY9).

Many Islamic organizations, including Holy Land Foundation, Mercy International USA, Islamic African Relief Agency, Success Foundation, Islamic Relief, Global Relief Foundation and others, have been quick in their efforts to aid the victims of the quake. A team from Islamic Relief was sent to Adapazari, one of the worst hit areas, with 80% of the city in rubble. It is estimated that in Adapazari, whose population is 200,000, the number dead has reached over 3,000 with over 6,000 injured, and thousands missing. (To send donations to Islamic Relief, call 1-888-479-4968)

Turkey is not a country unacquainted with earthquakes. Citizens of Turkey know the power and effects of the earthquake far too well. According to Reuters, since 1902, there have been 108 earthquakes within Turkey killing 65,000 people in this century alone. Since the recent earthquake, President Suleyman Demirel announced plans to introduce building standard reviews, increased seismic monitoring, and heightened communication among various departments of state to curtail future catastrophes.

Across the United States, mosques and Islamic centers, and Muslim organizations have united in the effort to assist the victims in Turkey. Muslims have been urged to make du’uah (prayer) for the victims, as well as make donations to relief organizations or to Islamic centers who are collecting cash donations for the relief effort.

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