Powerful Earthquake Rocks Iran’s Kerman Province

WASHINGTON, Sunday, December 28, 2003 — Iran’s southeastern Kerman Province was rocked by a powerful earthquake during the early morning hours of December 26. Estimated to measure between 6.3 and 6.7 on the Richter scale by the SED, the U.S. Geological Survey and Iranian sources, the earthquake left at least 5,000 dead and as many as 30,000 more injured, according to the Associated Press.

Powerful aftershocks continued to shake the region throughout the day. The epicenter is near the city of Bam, located approximately 115 miles southeast of the provincial capital of Kerman, or 610 miles southeast of Tehran. The city hospital in Bam has collapsed, and phone lines and water and power supplies are cut off. It is reported that 60 percent of houses have collapsed in the city of Bam.

The Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRCS) immediately organized and assigned five relief teams from the affected area as well as from neighboring provinces. The IRCS is providing tents and medical services, and is transporting the severely injured with two helicopters. Two field hospitals have also been deployed and will be in operation shortly.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the umbrella organization of Red Cross and Red Crescent societies worldwide, is working in close partnership with the IRCS during this critical search and rescue phase. The American Red Cross is accepting monetary donations to support earthquake relief efforts in Iran.

You can help those affected by the earthquake in Iran and countless other crises around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance, and other support to those in need. Call 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the International Response Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.