Haiti's earthquake kills over 100,000 and triggers cholera outbreak

On January 12, 2010, a catastrophic magnitude-7 earthquake hit Haiti, especially affecting the capital, Port-au-Prince. This natural disaster resulted in the deaths of at least 100,000 individuals and caused immense destruction to the already struggling infrastructure of the nation. The earthquake's epicenter was located near Léogâne, which is just southwest of the capital, intensifying the destruction in densely populated areas. Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, had a fragile infrastructure even before the earthquake. This lack of preparedness significantly compounded the impact of the disaster, with thousands of buildings collapsing including homes, hospitals, and schools. Emergency response efforts were hampered by the scale of destruction, with roads blocked and communication lines down, delaying aid to the survivors. In the aftermath, the country faced numerous challenges, including a cholera outbreak that began in October 2010. This outbreak resulted from the contamination of water sources, bringing additional suffering to a population already reeling from the effects of the earthquake. Thousands died from the cholera outbreak in the following years, showcasing the compounded effects of the disaster. The international community responded with offers of support, leading to the establishment of humanitarian efforts and organizations to aid recovery and reconstruction. However, rebuilding Haiti has been a lengthy process, with many issues still unresolved as of the date of the publication. The earthquake and its immediate consequences are considered a significant turning point in Haiti's history, revealing systemic weaknesses and underscoring the need for sustainable development and preparedness for future challenges.