Sharjah24 – AFP: Rescuers in Haiti used heavy equipment and their bare hands Monday to hunt for survivors under buildings flattened two days ago by a massive earthquake that killed more than 1,400 people, while an approaching storm threatened more suffering.
Flash floods and mudslides were possible as the front bore down on the Caribbean nation's southwestern peninsula, which was hard-hit by a 7.2-magnitude quake that toppled thousands of buildings early Saturday.
Hospitals have been overwhelmed with the influx of injured patients, and workers were at a loss with how they might cope with Tropical Depression Grace.
Haiti's civil protection agency gave a preliminary toll Monday of 1,419 dead and 6,900 injured in the powerful quake that struck about 100 miles (160 kilometers) to the west of the capital Port-au-Prince.
The earthquake also destroyed more than 37,000 homes, officials said.
According to the US National Hurricane Center, Haiti and the Dominican Republic -- which share the Caribbean island of Hispaniola -- could expect five to 10 inches of rain from Grace, "with isolated maximum totals of 15 inches" across southern areas through Tuesday.
"This heavy rainfall may lead to flash and urban flooding, and possible mudslides," the NHC warned.
For an optimal experience, please
