Powerful earthquake rocks Turkey

Turkey has been hit by a strong earthquake.

Those planning holidays to Turkey would be wise to check their travel insurance policy after a strong earthquake hit the country over the weekend.Yesterday (October 23rd) the 7.2-magnitude quake rocked the cities of Van and Ercis, with more than 1,000 people injured and hundreds thought to have died.Foreign secretary William Hague sent his condolences to those who have been affected by the natual disaster.”Todays earthquake in eastern Turkey has caused immense destruction, resulting in terrible loss of life.”The UK is ready to provide assistance, in line with any request from the Turkish authorities. We stand with Turkey at this difficult time,” he said.According to the US Geological Survey, the depth of the earthquake was 20 km and it struck the eastern part of the country.Its epicentre was 16 km north-east of Van, a seismologist was able to confirm.Mustafa Erdik of the Kandilli Observatory predicted approximately 1,000 buildings have been damaged in the event.Rescue efforts have continued overnight and people have been working their way through the rubble to uncover survivors.There are some concerns over the possibility of an aftershock and electricity has been cut across certain towns that were affected.General advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office regarding Turkey notes Britons should take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance prior to setting off on their holiday.Medical treatment for British nationals is not funded by the state and tends to be “very expensive”, the body warns, meaning it is essential to prepare for this situation in advance. By Anne Jones  

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