On Tuesday afternoon, September 19th, 2017, residents and first responders in Mexico began digging through the rubble of the recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Mexico City. The quake crumbled dozens of buildings in the city, as well as surrounding areas, and thus far has killed more than 230 people, including four adults and 20 children at the Enrique Rebsamen elementary school.
The country was also hit with an 8.2 magnitude earthquake just two weeks ago on their southern coast, which is the strongest that was felt in the past 100 years. Additionally, the Mexico City quake came on the 32nd anniversary of the 8.0 magnitude quake that hit the same city in 1985, which killed approximately 9,000 people.
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto released a statement saying that authorities will be focusing on rescuing those who remain trapped in the rubble, as well as assisting those who require medical attention.
However and despite this statement, the Mexican government both at Federal and State levels, federal agencies, as well as some political parties, and even part of the media, have been blocking aid and rescue efforts. It’s the civilians along with volunteers, and non profit organizations that have been coordinating these efforts trying to rescue people that are trapped, delivering food and medical aid to those in need despite governmental obstructions.
In the meantime, here are a few ways in which you can help with relief efforts in the country.
Donate Supplies or Money
Organizations such as the Mexican Red Cross, UNICEF USA, UNICEF Mexico, and more are currently looking for donations in the form of money and supplies, such as bottled water, canned goods, medicine, and batteries, to assist with relief efforts. Additionally, you can also donate to websites such as GoFundMe and Global Giving, which have created campaigns specifically for relief efforts related to the Mexico City quake. You can also donate to TOPOS which are the people you see digging through the rubble saving lives.
Utilize Social Media to Share Emergency Information
Individuals throughout Mexico are utilizing various social media platforms to share the names of those who have been rescued from the rubble of the earthquake. Additionally, Google has launched its People Finder feature to help collect different information on victims. Facebook and Twitter posts that share information on shelters and hospitals that are currently open are also useful, especially for those who are currently affected by the disaster.
What to Do if You Live in or Around Mexico City
If you live in or around the area that has been hit by the earthquake and have a WiFi connection, make it public, as this will enable both families and victims to get in touch with one another. Additionally, if you are a medical professional or someone who is experienced in architectural engineering, consider seeking out a disaster zone where you may be able to utilize your expertise. On the other hand, if you cannot provide any type of assistance, you are advised to stay out of the disaster area so that first responders and rescue organizations can provide adequate assistance to those who need it.
Loit & Associates Is Here To Help
Here at Loit & Associates our team is ready to step in and offer free legal advice for anyone affected by this tragedy. We will be providing free legal advice for any issues related to the earthquakes , such as: ways to find relatives or friends, lost documents, insurance issues, etc. Here is additional Pro Bono legal advice from Apple Seed.