Residents were jolted awake in the early hours as the ground shook violently for over a minute. Buildings swayed, windows shattered, and power lines collapsed, plunging several neighborhoods into complete darkness. People rushed into the streets, many still in their nightclothes, as aftershocks continued to ripple through the area.
Emergency services are struggling to reach the most heavily affected districts. Roads have been cracked open, bridges damaged, and phone lines disrupted, leaving families unable to contact loved ones. Hospitals are operating at full capacity, treating injuries ranging from minor cuts to life-threatening trauma.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency and are urging residents to avoid returning to damaged structures due to the risk of collapse. Rescue teams, along with volunteers, are searching the rubble for survivors. The fear of more aftershocks looms heavily over the city.
International aid organizations have already begun mobilizing resources, offering medical supplies, tents, and clean water. The full extent of the damage is still unknown, but early reports suggest this could be one of the most devastating natural disasters in the region’s history.
