An earthquake of 7th degree in Richter’s scale hit large territory of Armenia (in USSR) on 7 December 1988. Towns of Leninakan, Spitak and Stěpanavan were the most affected. Total number 25,000 casualties, 19,000 injured people and 500,000 people unsheltered. Property damages were estimated up to 16 mill USD.
Based on decision of the Fire Headquarters of the Ministry of Interior and Environment, the 78-member-unit of Czech firefighters (incl. 10 fire officers from Prague Fire Brigade) was sent to Leninakan.
Rescuing of people from collapsed buildings in Leninakan and further assistance to afflicted people (continuous survey in collapsed buildings, different assistance based on requests etc.) were the main intervention activities in disaster area, mainly in the centre of the town, and in difficult conditions.
To avoid plunder, the Soviet Army provided order service. Shooting was heard during nights.
More detailed information:
Departure: 14 December 1988 from Prague to Yerevan
Arrival: 23 December 1988 from Yerevan to Prague through Moscow
Transport: IL 76 cargo plane (incl. six Avie DVS-12 vans and one Lada Niva off-road)
Accommodation: the Czech base was built in a park, under the Statue of Armenia; military tents were heated by stoves for solid fuels.
Meals: from own supplies
Outside temperature: up to minus 20°C at night
Number of extricated persons in total: 1 alive woman, 37 dead
PICTURES:
ARMENIA 1988 USSR - Earthquake
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