Haiti earthquake: Haiti earthquake kills more than 700 people, about 2800 people injured Haiti earthquake updates death toll jumped to over 700 at least 2800 people injured

Les Cayes (Haiti): A powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on Saturday, causing buildings to collapse, killing at least 724 people and injuring at least 2,800. The director of Haiti’s Civil Protection Agency, Jerry Chandler, earlier said the death toll stood at 304 and that most casualties were in the south of the country. Several cities were completely devastated by Saturday’s earthquake and landslides hampered rescue operations. Due to the earthquake, the suffering of the people of Haiti, already badly affected by the corona virus epidemic, has increased even more.

The US Geological Survey said the quake’s epicenter was about 125 kilometers from the capital, Port au Prince. The crisis could worsen early next week as Hurricane Grace could reach Haiti by Monday or Tuesday. Tremors were felt throughout the day and night after the earthquake. Homeless people and those whose houses are on the verge of collapse, spent the night in the open on the streets.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry said he was sending help to places where cities were devastated and hospitals filled with patients. The prime minister has declared a month-long state of emergency across the country and said he will not seek international help until the damage is assessed. He said that some cities have been completely destroyed. He said the International Red Cross and hospitals in the affected areas were taking care of the injured. He appealed to the people of Haiti to unite at this time, saying: ‘The needs are enormous. We have to look after the injured, provide food, aid, temporary shelter and psychological support.

Chandler reported that at least 860 homes were destroyed and more than 700 were damaged. Hospitals, schools, offices and churches were also affected. US President Joe Biden has appointed USAID Administrator Samantha Power as the coordinating officer for US aid to Haiti. USAID will help assess the damage and rebuild. Many countries including Argentina, Chile have offered help.