Episcopal Relief and Development is ready to provide emergency assistance to families impacted by a severe earthquake in China and tornadoes in the Midwest and southeast United States.

A 7.9 magnitude earthquake struck China's Sichuan province today. The quake was centered approximately 60 mi/95 km northwest of Chengdu, a major city of 11 million people, and lasted for more than a minute. More than 44 aftershocks were recorded, and the risk of further aftershocks persists. The latest casualty reports are nearly 8,000 deaths and more than 10,000 injuries in Sichuan. Figures are likely to increase as telecommunications services with the worst-affected areas resume. In some areas more than 80 percent of buildings have been destroyed, including hospitals and primary schools.

Tornadoes swept across the Midwest and southeast United States over Mother’s Day weekend, killing at least 22 people and leaving thousands homeless in Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas and Georgia. The storms, blowing winds up to 175 miles per hour, first struck the Midwest before heading south. States of emergency have been declared in several counties in Georgia and Oklahoma. The full extent of the damage has not yet been determined. 

Episcopal Relief and Development is in touch with dioceses and partners in the disaster areas and stands ready to respond once needs are identified.

To help people affected by the earthquake in China and tornadoes in the US, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief and Developement’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online at http://www.er-d.org/ , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development “Emergency Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.