The USGS (United States Geological Survey) issued a red alert through its Pager system, estimating that the tremor from the earthquake could result in between 10,000 and 100,000 victims.
“Red Alert for quake-related deaths and economic losses. High casualties and extensive damage are likely, and the disaster is likely widespread. Previous red alerts have required a national or international response,” the USGS said in its statement.
Most people in the region live in structures vulnerable to the impact of tremors, the agency added. “The predominant types of vulnerable buildings are unreinforced brick masonry and adobe block constructions,” the USGS said.
Pager’s estimates are automatically generated to give responders a quick sense of the possible scale of earthquakes, helping guide rescue and relief efforts, but the USGS cautions that they are not confirmed death numbers.
