(Saturday, August 14, 2021) – Over 300 people are reported dead and the death toll is expected to climb even higher following a massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Haiti Saturday morning.  The U.S. Geological Survey predicts the death toll could reach into the thousands, raising fears that the disaster could be similar to the quake that struck Haiti back in 2010.

More than 1,800 people are also injured.  Prime Minister Ariel Henry says the country is in urgent need of medical supplies.  President Biden has authorized immediate assistance.  The epicenter of the earthquake was about 7.5 miles northeast of Saint-Louis-du-Sud and 10 kilometers deep.

On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti leaving as many at 300,000 dead and more than 1.5 million displaced.

A state of emergency has been declared in Haiti for the next month as officials asses the damage and as crews search for victims and survivors.