String of 30 Earthquakes Hit Malawi

By Raising Malawi on 01.14.10

The earthquake that hit Haiti on Tuesday was truly devastating. The disaster was terrible, but the outpouring of support from all over the world – from the delivery of supplies to the incredible online donations – gives us hope for Haiti’s recovery.

While Haiti has captured much of the world’s attention, a series of earthquakes have rocked Malawi – the worst to hit that country in decades. It is estimated that four have died, 180 have been injured, and 24,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.

A string of 30 earthquakes have hit the northern district of Karonga since the beginning of December in what is called an “earthquake swarm.” The largest of the quakes reached a 6.2 on the Richter scale. Malawi experienced similar events in 1966 and 1989, but these are the worst ones yet.

Thousands of Malawians are now being told to stay out of their homes at a time when the rainy season is just beginning. "The fact that the earthquakes keep repeating themselves creates so much uncertainty and the least we can do is to tell people to keep away from their houses for now," says Richard Dictus of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

Most importantly, the displaced Malawians in Karonga need shelter and medical care. The government and donors are providing tents and survival kits to those who have been displaced.

In trying times like these, it is our responsibility to help those whose lives have been so terribly affected. We thank you for your continued support.