We knew we would find people under there. We didn't know if they would be alive or dead. The confirmed death toll from the quake rose above 550 yesterday as another series of aftershocks hit the region, spreading fresh anxiety. The extraordinary rescue will raise hopes that more survivors may be found, but it is extremely unlikely. Hundreds of people are still missing beneath the rubble in Duzce and the surrounding area.
Survivors are up against the elements and, in many cases, severe psychological trauma.
Many of them have decided enough is enough. They are packing up what belongings they can and leaving to stay with friends and relatives in other parts of the country. Some say they do not intend to return to the north-west. They simply cannot believe this has happened again, so soon after the last earthquake struck in August. The provincial governor has said 80,000 people are still living in the streets without proper shelter.