Haitian Earthquake: The Horror Pictures x12

A massive 7.0-magnitude earthquake has struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti / The extent of the devastation is still unclear but there are fears thousands of people may have died.

Haiti’s worst quake in two centuries hit south of the capital Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, wrecking the presidential palace, UN HQ and other buildings.

A “large number” of UN personnel were reported missing by the organisation. Many people have spent the night outside amid fears of more aftershocks.

The Red Cross says up to three million people have been affected.

Describing the earthquake as a “catastrophe”, Haiti’s envoy to the US said the cost of the damage could run into billions Read more …

Haiti Hit by 7.0-Magnitude Earthquake (Photos+Videos)

By William Branigin and Michael D. Shear / Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, January 13, 2010

A powerful earthquake shook Haiti on Tuesday, leveling buildings in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and sending panicked residents into the streets, as beleaguered authorities braced for major casualties.

The quake, which had a preliminary magnitude of 7.0, occurred about 4:45 p.m. and was centered about 10 miles west of the capital. The U.S. Geological Survey said it was the largest temblor ever recorded in Haiti, and witnesses reported a series of strong aftershocks. Read more …