A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off Chile’s coast Sunday morning, triggering tsunami warnings and prompting evacuation orders for coastal areas. Those warnings have since been lifted, but damage assessments are still underway.

In an earthquake’s immediate aftermath, search and rescue operations and damage assessments are essential priorities to save lives and organize appropriate response efforts.

Direct Relief has extensive experience responding to earthquakes throughout the world, including in Chile, which in 2010 suffered a devastating 8.8 magnitude earthquake that killed hundreds and left tens of thousands homeless. Working closely with its Chilean partner FEDES (Fundación Educativa de Desarrollo Economico y Social), Direct Relief responded with more than $600k in essential medical resources to points of need throughout the country.

Should the need arise, Direct Relief is prepared to respond again to partner requests for medical resources.