Magnitude 7.2 earthquake hits Turkey

More than 239 people have been confirmed dead, 1,150 injured and hundreds more are missing after a massive 7.2 earthquake that struck the cities of Van and Erics in Turkey. 

Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said he feared for the fate of villages that rescue teams had yet to reach. "Because the buildings are made of mud brick, they are more vulnerable to quakes. I must say that almost all buildings in such villages are destroyed," AlertNet reported.

Patients in the town of Erics were being treated outside of the hospital, as the building was so badly damaged.   Aid is on the ground and being distributed by the Red Crescent and other organizations. 

Read the full story at AlertNet.