The death toll from the earthquake in Turkey and Syria has exceeded 21,000, amid expectations that the final death toll from the disaster will rise dramatically.
The extreme cold threatens the lives of thousands of survivors who find themselves homeless.
The United Nations said that additional aid was on its way to the affected areas, and called on governments not to obstruct air aid.
On Thursday, the World Health Organization warned that “too many people” were living “outdoors, in dire and appalling conditions”.
Rescue teams are still searching for any survivors under the rubble, but hopes are fading nearly 100 hours following the devastating earthquake struck.
international aid
The United States announced an emergency relief package of $85 million.
On Thursday, the World Bank announced $1.78 billion in assistance to Turkey, including immediate financing to rebuild basic infrastructure and to support those affected by the earthquake.
image copyright USAID
American aid on its way to Turkey
But logistical obstacles and damaged roads are hampering the work of some 100,000 or more rescue workers.
The United States reiterated its call to the Syrian government to allow access to opposition-held areas.
The US Agency for International Development said the aid would go towards building shelters, food, water and medical care.
The move comes following countries around the world sent research and aid teams to Syria and Turkey.
Rescue workers say the supplies are needed immediately, otherwise more people will die of the cold.
The US agency said in a statement Thursday that it would provide emergency food, shelters, medical care and trauma support, as well as clean drinking water, and support in the field of “personal hygiene and sanitation to keep people safe and healthy.”
The agency’s director, Samantha Power, has sent a disaster response team to work in the Turkish cities of Adiyaman, Adana and Ankara.
The deputy director of the US agency, Isobel Coleman, told CBS News Thursday that US forces are in the area to help transport supplies by helicopter following the damage to the roads.
“It’s cold. It’s winter. People need shelter. They need food, water and hygiene,” she said of the earthquake-affected areas.
Governments around the world pledged aid and rescue teams to support relief efforts following the quake.
Canada promised 10 million Canadian dollars ($7.4 million), and offered to make another donation of 10 million Canadian dollars as well.
Rescue teams were sent from India, Germany, South Korea, Israel and other countries.
Turkey and Syria earthquake: Aerial footage reveals the extent of the damage
