Late on November 3, an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.7 struck northwest Nepal with an epicenter near the Jajarkot and Rukum Districts about 250 miles northeast of Kathmandu causing widespread damage. Initial reports indicate that more than 150 people have been killed and many more have been injured, with that number expected to rise as communication with the region is restored. On November 6, an additional aftershock of approximate magnitude 5.6 occurred causing further damage. Damage and fatality reports are still being collected but the earthquakes have caused extensive damage to homes and buildings in the area – many of which are constructed from stacked rocks and logs.

Americares is providing emergency funding to two local organizations – one to provide food and non-food item distribution and mental health support for women and children affected by the earthquakes and the other to support families with winterization kits including tents, blankets and winter jackets.

offering assistance to partner organizations and assessing the health needs.

Americares has responded multiple times in Nepal, including opening a temporary country office after the major 2015 earthquake.