On Tuesday, a magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck parts of western Haiti, resulting in dozens being injured and at least four killed, according to civil protection authorities. The Grand’Anse department, situated 300 kilometres (185 miles) west of Port-au-Prince, was isolated and hit the hardest.
The quake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, as reported by the US Geological Survey. Three family members lost their lives when their house collapsed, and 36 others were injured.
The United Nations expressed its sadness over the disaster and offered its willingness to help Haitian authorities and other partners in providing relief and assistance to those affected. The earthquake happened just days after severe storms hit the country, resulting in a death toll of 51 people, with 18 others still missing.
According to Jamaica Observer, The World Food Programme aims to distribute about 350,000 meals and other kinds of food assistance to those in need. Still, ongoing insecurity and road damage, compounded by gang violence, have impeded relief efforts.
The southwestern peninsula off the coast was where this recent earthquake occurred, an area known for experiencing destructive earthquakes. In the past, Haiti has faced devastating natural disasters, such as the catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake in 2010 that claimed the lives of more than 200,000 people and left several others homeless.
Furthermore, in August 2021, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit the southwest peninsula, resulting in over 2,200 deaths and the destruction of 130,000 homes. Despite the obstacles, the UN remains committed to alleviating the suffering of those affected by the earthquake and previous disasters.
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