Details are still emerging, but the quake is expected to have a major impact, based on its magnitude and the fact that many people were already in vulnerable situations because of the previous quake. According to the latest estimates, yesterday’s earthquake killed 65 people and injured more than 1,900.

“This is a double disaster, leaving many of the survivors of the first earthquake shocked and fearful of further tremors,” said Cecilia Keizer, Oxfam’s country director in Nepal.

Oxfam currently has more than 100 staff and volunteers working in seven districts in the country on the humanitarian response to this second earthquake. All are safe after yesterday’s quake and continuing the relief effort.

Reaching communities in the country’s rural districts has been challenging and initial reports suggest fresh landslides have cut off some areas.

“Our teams in the quake areas reported that buildings collapsed and landslides have blocked the roads. They too were very shaken but immediately got back to work,” said Keizer. “While we don’t yet know the full extent of this second major earthquake, we do know that the people of Nepal will need much more support to help them put their lives back together.”

In the coming weeks, Oxfam will continue to provide emergency relief to earthquake survivors, working with local people and organizations to reach the most vulnerable people with aid. But after this new earthquake, we truly need your support. The rainy season is starting soon and tens of thousands of people are still living outdoors in makeshift shelters. There is a risk of waterborne diseases if water and sanitation facilities cannot be built in time.

Photo Credit: Photo: Aubrey Wade/Oxfam