A 7,8-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey early this morning and initial reports indicated it was felt across much of the country and several countries in the region, including neighboring Syria.

The official death toll, according to the latest information, across Turkey and Syria now stands at more than 520, with thousands injured. A major rescue operation is underway.

More footage of #earthquake moments in Turkey. #earthquake #TurkiyeEarthquake pic.twitter.com/5dDdhB27r4

— The SETA Foundation at Washington DC (@SETADC) February 6, 2023

According to the USGS, the devastating 7,8-magnitude earthquake struck at 4:17 a.m. local time at a depth of approximately 17,9 kilometers. It is feared that the death toll could be much higher as the earthquake caught most people while they were sleeping.

+7
Gas pipeline explosions after the earthquake in Hatay province, Turkey. pic.twitter.com/23VmS5mREb

— :Baron ⚠️ (@3rd_abraham) February 6, 2023

Due to the earthquake, there was also an explosion at the gas pipeline in Hayat, Turkey. A fire broke out after the explosion.