1976 Van-Çaldıran

The 24 November 1976 Van-Çaldıran Earthquake is one of the most significant disasters since 1939, as reported by Milliyet and Cumhuriyet. Headlines emphasize the harsh conditions survivors faced in freezing weather and highlight, "Van deprem felaketi yurdumuzdaki konutların çağdışılığını bir kez daha hatırlattı" (The Van earthquake disaster has once again reminded us of the obsolescence of housing in our country), underscoring the extensive damage of adobe houses. Photos show citizens carrying coffins through the ruins, setting up tents, and waiting for assistance.

Fundraising efforts are covered, with President Demirel announcing 12,000 tents for 4,000 destroyed homes and aid from 21 countries. Cartoons criticize the limited aid reaching the region.

Cumhuriyet notes officials promising to rebuild with resilient homes. Efforts to relocate affected families to warmer areas are also mentioned.

Date: November 24, 1976

Magnitude: 7.5 Mw

Fatalities (official numbers): 3,840

Damaged buildings (official numbers): 9,232 (2011 Van Earthquakes total number)

Image created in Esri, 2023.