ActionAid’s emergency teams are assessing urgent needs and preparing to respond after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck south-western Haiti at around 8.30am local time on Saturday (14 August).

Angeline Annesteus, Country Director of ActionAid Haiti, says:

“Today brings back the trauma of the 2010 earthquake that tore Haiti apart. This deadly quake has destroyed homes and infrastructure in some of Haiti’s most vulnerable and marginalised communities.

“In Jérémie, one of the areas most affected, our team is helping with rescue efforts as families desperately try to pull loved ones from the rubble. Sadly, we expect the death toll to continue to rise.

“We are assessing urgent needs and preparing to respond by providing food, temporary shelter and essential items such as blankets and hygiene kits for women and girls.

“Women and girls are already bearing the brunt of the multiple crises facing Haiti, including rising hunger, political instability and gang violence. The devastating fallout from this earthquake, could push many more families into poverty and hunger.”

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For more information and interviews call +447795642990 or email jenna.pudelek@actionaid.org.