Death toll from devastating Haiti earthquake nears 1300 people

“The streets are filled with screaming:” death toll from devastating Haiti Earthquake reaches 1300

The death toll from a devastating 7.2-magnitude earthquake in Haiti has almost reached 1300, and is continuing to rise. Neighbouring countries are rushing to send aid as rescuers struggle to find survivors buried in the rubble.

The earthquake struck on Saturday, destroying thousands of homes and buildings. The earthquake hit the country’s South-west hardest, particularly around the city of Les Cayes.

Haiti’s Civil Protection Agency says the death toll has climbed from 724 to 1297. Hospitals are struggling to cope as wounded people seek treatment. The CPA has reported 5700 injured.

“We must work together to provide rapid and effective responses to this extremely serious situation”

Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry

Haiti’s Prime Minister pleas for solidarity

Prime Minister Ariel Henry declared a month-long state of emergency and urged the population to “show solidarity”.

“The most important thing is to recover as many survivors as possible under the rubble,” he said on Saturday.

International community pledges aid

Several countries from the international community have committing to supporting Haiti with aid and medical supplies.

US President Joe Biden authorised an “immediate US response” on Saturday. The UN also says it will support the rescue effort.

The neighbouring Dominican Republic has offered to send food and medical equipment. Cuba has also sent more than 250 doctors to help treat injured survivors.

This comes after the assassination of Haiti’s president last month

The earthquake comes as Haiti struggles to recover from the assassination of former president Jovenel Moïse.

Last month, mercenaries dressed as US drug enforcement agents broke into Moïse’s house, murdering the president and attacking the first lady.

The investigation into the assassination is ongoing.