ADRA Responds to the Chile Earthquake

At 3:30 am on February 27, an earthquake measuring 8.8 magnitude on the Richter scale hit Chile. While the quake lasted only about four minutes, initial reports indicate it:

• destroyed approximately 500,000 homes
• damaged 1.5 million homes

• caused 214 deaths
• affected 13 million of the 16 million inhabitants

Throughout the day several minor quakes occurred, causing more distress to the people who had left their homes and were preparing to sleep outside on the roads and in parks. The cities affected most severely were Curico, Chillan, Talca, Concepcion, and Los Angeles. The communication company, Intel, reports that the optical cable system was destroyed causing the disruption of all communication services in the country.

Initially, the worst affected areas could be reached only by helicopters; as bridges and roads were damaged and impassable. Reports indicate that there is already a fuel shortage in the central part of the country. The Santiago international airport was closed and several aircraft were stranded due to runway damage.

As part of the initial response, an ADRA Chile truck loaded with water left Santiago on the afternoon of Feb. 27 with the goal of reaching the area of Talca and Concepción. The army is already working to provide detours for the passage of vehicles.

ADRA Chile is in direct contact with the government and will continue to procure blankets, bed sheets, food, water and any other needed materials for distribution.

To make a contribution to ADRA Canada's Chile Earthquake Relief Fund, click here.