Biggest disaster in Syria is yet to come

In Syria, the earthquake caused widespread destruction in infrastructure and civilian buildings in Aleppo, Hama, Idleb, and Lattakia governorates. The impact of this earthquake is enormous. Many buildings in the region who have already suffered damage from the ongoing civil war are now destroyed.

When time passes by, we get more insight on the impact and fear that the biggest disaster is yet to come. After assessments we see:

• Many buildings have collapsed and people are still expected to be under the rubble. Many buildings are unsafe and the risk of collapse is high. In Aleppo, areas are closed due to safety reasons and providing humanitarian assistance is challenging.
• People stay on the streets, in cars, shelters, sports stadiums, mosques and churches. But there are also people who, despite the unsafe state of their homes, do not dare to leave.
• Another disaster is unfolding whilst people have lost everything and many of them do not have the means to provide in basic needs.
• The availability of essential products is limited. Shelters cannot always offer warm clothes, food and water. Given the temperatures, especially at night, it is urgent that people have access to a safe and warm place to stay.
• Syria is in a fuel-crisis and fuel is not always available or affordable. An immediate emergency demand for petrol is requested to support rescue workers and humanitarian organisations.
• Mental health and psychosocial support is essential when dealing with crisis. The continuous aftershocks are causing widespread fear and anxiety among children, older people, women and young people.

Dorcas has been active in Syria for many years. This allowed our staff on the ground to take immediate action. Dorcas is providing support on FSL, non-food items and protection via:

• Delivering food parcels and ready-to-eat meals.
• Supplying blankets and warm clothing.
• Providing health and mental health services and medicine through a mobile unit in Hama and Idleb. Its servicing in hard-to-reach areas.
• Offering mental health and psychosicial support. Our Psychological First Aid programme is designed to provide emotional support and support individuals cope with their negative experience.

08 February 2023