Red Cross responds to Afghanistan earthquake

The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) is responding to help people affected by a powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake, which struck southeastern Afghanistan late on Sunday, 31 August.

The Red Crescent has deployed emergency teams to support people affected, deliver immediate relief and conduct aerial and field assessments.  

The immediate needs of people affected are: 

• Search and rescue, which Red Crescent trained volunteers are supporting
• Distribution of health items (medicines, trauma care, blood supplies)
• Distribution of food and drinking water
• Mental health and psycho-social support
• Safe places for women impacted  

Jeremy Smith, British Red Cross Country Manager for Afghanistan said: “The location of this earthquake is very remote and mountainous, which makes rescue efforts particularly challenging. There have been repeated aftershocks and more are feared in the coming days. Floods and landslides over the weekend have also affected rescue efforts. Sadly, people will be displaced for a long period into the winter as homes have been destroyed. 

“The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is delivering vital aid and will continue to do so for as long as people need us.” 

The public can donate to the British Red Cross Afghanistan Crisis Appeal. 

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk