CNN: Breaking News

[x-gambit.livejournal.com]

Reports from Indian and Pakistani media have reported an earthquake measuring 6.6 on the Richter scale has struck Kashmir, the disputed border region between India and Pakistan. Reports indicate that the quake completely wiped out entire towns and villages in Northern Pakistan, and surrounding areas also suffering severe damage.

Witnesses report roads buried in rubble and many affected areas remain inaccessible at this time. Aftershocks have already begun to effect the already damaged buildings, and it is feared that the death toll will rise considerably before they are finished.

General Paul Vandemeer, the commander of the UN Task Force in Pakistan, has issued a statement appealing for aid to the global community and health organizations. "The earthquake has not only killed thousands and destroyed countless homes and infestructure, but it has also cut off access to many regions on either side of the border in the Kashmiri province. A second, massive wave of death will happen if we do not step up our efforts now to reach these areas and establish access to clean water, shelter and medical aid."

The UN estimates that as many as 300,000 people may have been left homeless and isolated in the wake of the event, although they would not speculate on a possible death toll at this time.

CNN will continue to monitor the situation as it develops.