Chile Earthquake - Q&A

Read Oxfam Canada's Q&A on the Chile Earthquake.

On 27 February 2010, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Chile. The epicenter of the quake was 115km north-east of Concepcion and 325km south-west of the Chilean capital, Santiago.

In addition to the earthquake, communities along Chile's coast were also hit by a tidal wave and tsunami warnings were issued across the Pacific Rim. Officially 799 people have been reported dead; however, that number is expected to rise as many are missing from coastal towns such as Constitucion. It is believed that more than 1.5 million homes, mainly those of older adobe construction, have been destroyed. More than 2 million people have been affected by the earthquake.

Aftershocks continue to be felt. The damage has so far been estimated as between US$15bn and US$30bn.

 

How is Oxfam assisting the relief effort in Chile?

A five-member Oxfam logistical and emergency team reached Constitución and Concepción on March 4 to carry out an assessment on how best to assist the Chilean government in relief and recovery efforts.

It is expected that once the assessment is complete, Oxfam will focus it's response plan on water and sanitation.

The Canadian public can make donations to the Chile Earthquake 2010 fundonline (click here)or by phone at 1-800-466-9326 (1-800-GO OXFAM).

 

How long will the aid effort last?

It is too early to know. The relief phase of the operation is likely to take at least six months followed by a lengthy rebuilding phase. On Thursday, 4 March, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet told Chilean radio that the rebuilding effort is likely to take three to four years.

 

What are the most urgent humanitarian needs?

 

  • Search and rescue
  • Medical services, shelter, food and water
  • Transport and communications
  • Restoration of basic services.

 

The Chilean government has requested assistance with field hospitals, water purification plants, damage assessment experts and search and rescue specialists.

 

Can I donate goods in kind to Oxfam such as blankets and medical equipment?

Oxfam does not accept goods in kind since transporting in-kind donations is prohibitively expensive, time consuming and is not the best way to help re-start the local economy. Where possible, Oxfam and our partners purchase relief items locally in order to keep costs low as well as to help stimulate the local economy.