April 25, 2015: Kathmandu, Nepal – A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the densely populated Kathmandu Valley in Nepal earlier today, killing thousands, and injuring thousands more. It is being recorded as the worst earthquake to hit the country in more than 80 years*, and the death toll continues to rise.
The quake cut off power and left entire homes, temples, and other structures in the area completely destroyed. Hospitals are at their capacity and many people have been forced to take to the streets, left with little or no means of communication. Devastation from this disaster, which has been considered 16 times more powerful than the quake that shook Haiti in 2010*, has also shook the neighbouring countries of India and Bangladesh.
Nepal’s mountainous terrain will make relief efforts more challenging, and the full extent of destruction will only be known once rural areas outside Kathmandu can be reached.
CMAT has mobilized its assessment team which will be departing for Nepal shortly. Depending on assessment findings, a call for volunteers may be placed for further support.
Help CMAT provide medical assistance for the Nepali people at this devastating time, when they are most at risk. Donate now, so that together, we can save lives.
CMAT is also collecting Air Canada Aeroplan miles to help offset the costs of volunteer flights. You can donate your aeroplan miles here: