Authorities are struggling to contain widespread looting in the aftermath of the 8.8-magnitude earthquake in Chile. President Michelle Bachelet has given the military control over two hard-hit provinces and a curfew has been imposed.
The death toll has risen to 708 and several people are listed as missing. Approximately 5,000 Canadians live in Chile and about 1,000 of them live in the quake zone.
About 500,000 homes have been destroyed or badly damaged.
Here in Toronto, relief groups are doing what they can to help.
"Our primary team that's going in is our water purification team," said Matt Capobianco. He works with Global Medic, which is also bringing portable field hospitals to the region.
"We'll train local partners on how to use our equipment and once we're comfortable that they're able to take over the operation, the gear stays with them," Capobianco said.
Massive waves triggered by the quake devastated areas along Chile’s Pacific coast. Tsunami warnings were issued for Hawaii, Japan, and even British Columbia. There are reports up to 350 people were killed in Constitucion alone.
Concepcion -- about 515 kilometres south of Santiago -- was hit hard by the Saturday’s temblor and now by looters, who’ve targeted nearly every major market in the city. Police have been using tear gas and water cannons to deter people from stealing.
Bachelet, who leaves office March 11, said her nation is facing an emergency “without parallel in Chile’s history”. Strong aftershocks Monday prompted frightened citizens to set up tents in open spaces such as parks and highway medians.
The government has ordered hospitals and shelters to get first priority when power companies restore service in various areas and field hospitals are expected to be set up in Concepcion, Talca and Curico.
Damage was reported in the capital of Santiago, but subway service has reportedly resumed and some flights have been able to operate out of the airport.
The 9pm to 6am curfew is in effect for all non-emergency workers. Bachelet signed an order giving the military control over the provinces of Concepcion and Maule. She said Chile needs damage assessment experts and rescue workers to relieve the people who’ve been working tirelessly over the past two days.
The Canadian government said it’s ready to step in to help once it receives a request.
Troops have also been ordered to help deliver aid and to clear rubble from the streets.
Concepcion’s airport remains closed to commercial traffic.
The Canadian Red Cross is accepting donations. Click here for more information.
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Salvation Army