Short-term earthquake responses and relief

The response to an earthquake typically follows a hazard response curve (see below), with distinct stages. Initially, the focus is on rescuing people, often involving search and rescue teams and sniffer dogs to locate survivors. The primary aim during this phase is to provide emergency aid, including shelter, food, blankets, medication, and water purification tablets. This phase transitions into rehabilitation, where temporary housing and essential services are provided, which can extend over several weeks. The final phase is reconstruction, which involves rebuilding infrastructure and can take several years, depending on the funding availability.

The Hazard Response Curve

In the aftermath of the Haitian earthquake, the Red Cross estimated that 3 million people required emergency aid. Despite the urgency, seven days post-earthquake, the United Nations had managed to deliver food to only 200,000 people. Numerous countries offered assistance, sending doctors, trained sniffer dogs, and supplies such as tents, blankets, and food. Financial aid also flowed in, with the World Bank committing $100 million. Unfortunately, much of this aid arrived too late for many trapped in the rubble or in need of medical treatment.

Conversely, following the 2011 Christchurch earthquake in New Zealand, which killed 185 people, a comprehensive emergency management programme was activated within two hours. The rescue operations continued for over a week before transitioning to recovery efforts.