People in Southern Turkey braced for a magnitude 6.3 earthquake that caused hundreds of injuries and three casualties.

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake was unleashed in Syria and Turkey, which resulted in widespread damage to properties and lives.

According to BBC World's latest report, the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria reached a 44,000 death toll.

International support and communities helped both countries with rescue operations and humanitarian assistance as thousands of people have been displaced.

Deadly shocks in Southern Turkey

The latest report from CNN World said that a powerful aftershock struck southern Turkey, causing 294 injuries and three casualties.

The report added that the aftershock reached the Hatay province with a quake epicenter located in the Defne district.

Meanwhile, CNN explained that about 130 people were affected by the catastrophic earthquake.

Many survivors in Syria and Turkey have been traumatized by aftershocks and earthquakes.

Widespread damage and building collapse

Furthermore, Reuters' recent report showed that Turkey initiated a crackdown against building contractors and developers for the responsibility of building construction.

Some of the buildings were newly built, while some were old. Reuters added that about 25,000 buildings in Turkey and Syria suffered from massive collapse and damages.

Rescue operations became more difficult as many survivors were trapped under the collapsed buildings.

In Syria, reports said a heavy machine is needed to lift rocks from buildings.

Recently, AccuWeather reported that the challenging weather and cold have become troublesome for rescuers.

Moreover, the delivery of humanitarian assistance was difficult due to damaged roads.

Affected communities and survivors were given temporary shelters, especially during the extreme cold.

Earthquake safety

While no one can predict an earthquake, disaster preparedness is essential to prevent casualties and injuries.

According to American Red Cross, early preparations for earthquakes are crucial. Essential safety tips would help homeowners stay calm and anticipate possible quakes.

Homeowners should ensure their houses can withstand quakes, especially if they are located at fault lines. Checking for houses' foundations and structures would be helpful. Necessary repairs for possible damage would reduce the earthquake risk.

Furthermore, people should remind the Drop, Cover and Hold during earthquake disasters. Homeowners should look for sturdy places, including sheltering under the table.

Meanwhile, a disaster-oriented plan at home would make your family members prepared for earthquakes. They should always stay calm.

Keeping an emergency disaster kit would be a life-saver after earthquakes, especially when there is widespread damage and inaccessible roads.

As Nature World News reports mentioned, the emergency kit should include the following: battery-operated radio, flashlight, blankets, extra mobile phone, bottled water, extra phone and non-perishable goods.

After the earthquake, there is a chance of a tsunami. People near the coast should stay alert for tsunami warnings.

Meanwhile, people should be careful with falling debris after the earthquake. A leak of toxic chemicals is also possible.