Turkey quake death toll tops 500

The death toll from Sunday's earthquake in eastern Turkey has surpassed 500, while survivors are facing freezing weather in tents.

Turkish authorities on Thursday said they have confirmed 523 deaths and more than 1,600 injuries from the quake that hit the eastern province of Van.

Nearly 200 people have been pulled out alive from the rubble of collapsed buildings. Rescue efforts using heavy machinery are continuing, as many people are believed to be still trapped under the debris.

Quake-hit areas have been having rain and snow since Wednesday, making survivors' lives in the tents more difficult.

One of the residents said they have no choice but to stay in tents, where rain is getting in, because everything has been destroyed.

It is estimated that up to 600,000 people in Van Province have been affected and relief supplies are reportedly not fully reaching those in need.

Immediately after the quake, the Turkish government declined aid from foreign countries. But since the country decided to accept aid, international relief activities, including a medical team from Japan, have begun.

Thursday, October 27, 2011 19:43 +0900 (JST)