Bermudians have been asked to do what they can to support the people of Haiti in the wake of a deadly earthquake in the Caribbean nation.

David Burt, the Premier, said this afternoon: “The people of Haiti have once again experienced a devastating earthquake that has left the country, and her people directly affected by the catastrophic damages.

“The images emerging from Haiti are heartbreaking. We have learnt from the communications coming from Haiti that damages to the country’s infrastructure, food and water sources and health services are severely impacted.

“The Government of Bermuda recognises the work of the Red Cross and other local charities that are assisting in Haiti. I am asking all residents to keep the people of Haiti in your thoughts, prayers and lend any support if you can.”

The 7.2 magnitude earthquake caused devastation in the south western section of the nation on Saturday morning, with the death toll rising to nearly 2,000 today.

The same area was also battered by Tropical Storm Grace this week, which complicated rescue efforts.

Unicef, an international humanitarian organisation, has estimated that 1.2 million Haitians were affected and that more than 84,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.