Latter-day Saints in Puerto Rico are providing support to their neighbors after earthquakes hit the country, including a major 6.4-magnitude temblor that struck the island early Tuesday morning.
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Media for journalists: B-roll, SOTs, and English transcription of Spanish SOTs
The national director of communication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Puerto Rico, Herminio Gómez, reported that all Church members and missionaries are safe. Latter-day Saint leaders are also assisting in relief efforts in the affected communities.
"We are making all the preparations here in Puerto Rico to protect and take care of ourselves, in addition to verifying [those] who are most likely to be affected by eventual aftershocks," said Gómez.
There have been a series of aftershocks, and many residents remain without power and water. Many homes and buildings were damaged.
Church leaders regularly instruct their members about the importance of being prepared both temporarily and spiritually in case of natural phenomena that may arise. To do this, local congregations use an emergency planning guide, where procedures are defined before, during and after the event.
In addition, whenever an emergency situation occurs, the Church of Jesus Christ activates its humanitarian aid protocols in coordination with authorities and government officials and non-governmental entities in the countries where it is verified, with the purpose of offering help and comfort to those affected, in addition to providing essential items.
For more information, visit the Puerto Rico Newsroom (Spanish).