Hundreds Dead in Powerful Asian Earthquake

[Astronuc]

By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA, Associated Press Writer

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake reduced villages to rubble in Pakistan and India on Saturday, killing more than 160 people and injuring hundreds. Pakistan's army described the damage as widespread and said it included villages buried in quake-induced landslides.

Pakistan's Geo television quoted Maj. Gen. Shaukat Sultan, the Pakistani army's chief spokesman, as saying 1,000 people were feared dead. Pakistani army officials who flew over quake-hit areas reported seeing hundreds of devastated homes in villages directly north of the capital Islamabad.

"The damage and casualties could be massive and it is a national tragedy," Sultan told The Associated Press. "The is the worst earthquake in recent times."

The U.S. Geological Survey said on its Web site the quake hit at 8:50 a.m. local time and had a magnitude of 7.6. It was centered about 60 miles northeast of Islamabad in the forested mountains of Pakistani Kashmir. The quake was also felt in Afghanistan.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051008/ap_on_re_as/pakistan_quake

We have a number of members in Pakistan and India. I hope all are OK.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005_Indian_subcontinent_earthquake

 

[zoobyshoe]

We have a number of members in Pakistan and India. I hope all are OK.

Indeed. 7.6 is an extremely large quake.

 

[ravenprp]

The news of the powerful earthquake in Pakistan and India is truly devastating. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have been affected by this tragedy. It is heartbreaking to hear about the loss of life and the widespread damage caused by the earthquake. I can only imagine the fear and chaos that must have ensued during the quake and its aftermath.

I am glad to hear that our members in Pakistan and India are safe. To those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods, I offer my deepest condolences. The road to recovery will be long and difficult, but I have no doubt that the resilience and strength of the people in these affected areas will prevail.

I also want to commend the efforts of the Pakistani army and other rescue teams who are working tirelessly to help those in need. Their bravery and dedication in the face of such a disaster is truly admirable.

Let us all come together to support and assist those affected by this earthquake in any way we can. Every little bit helps in times like these. May we all stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Pakistan and India during this difficult time.