Local people have been taking remarkable risks in trying to salvage belongings. It's a sign both of their plight, and of the lack of official safety supervision, which has marred the earthquake catastrophe in the past week. Beyond anyone's control, however, has been the savage weather. As if they haven't suffered enough from the quakes, the population in the coastal areas of Northwest Turkey are having to contend with torrential rain storms. It's not only making survivors' lives more miserable, but it's hindering relief work, and is increasing the danger of waterborne diseases.
Medical teams are worried about the risks to children in particular.
Seven days into the tragedy, and large numbers of tents have now arrived in the disaster area, though not nearly enough for the 200,000 people thought to have been made homeless. When autumn and harsh weather arrives, though, canvas won't be sufficient. And relief agencies are having to plan for building shelters able to withstand earthquakes and the cold. The Turkish government is appealing to the outside word for blankets, torches, disinfectants, and various vaccines to fight infections. As their shock wears off, the people's anger is starting to show.