(ATR) While the dangerous Hurricane Maria threatens to imitate the destructive power of its predecessor Irma in the Caribbean, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake devastated Mexico City on Sept. 19.
According to reports, the death toll of Tuesday’s earthquake has risen above 200. As a result of the devastation, the International Paralympic Committee is postponing the IPC Swimming and IPC Powerlifting Championships.
The earthquake caused scenes of panic reminiscent of the 1985 earthquake that caused thousands of deaths in the Mexican capital.
While the earthquake only caused minor damage to the venues scheduled to host the events, the IPC is postponing the tournaments in respect to the damage caused and the families of athletes. Many of the hotels expected to house athletes have taken severe damage from the earthquake and a full infrastructure assessment needs to be conducted.
"Following the terrible earthquake our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with the people of Mexico at this time," IPC president Andrew Parsons said in a statement. "The tragic loss of life and devastation caused is heart breaking to see and our deepest sympathies are with all those involved."
The two championships are a part of the 2017 Para Sport Festival in Mexico scheduled for Sept. 30 to Oct. 6. This is the first time that the IPC has ever had to postpone its championships.
"I know the postponement of both Championships will be disappointing news to all the athletes who were set to take part, however these are unique circumstances and quite simply this is the right thing to do at the moment," said Parsons.
"Our immediate priority now is to work with the team delegations currently in Mexico City to ensure their safe departure. We will then assess whether we can reorganize these Championships in the near future in Mexico City or seek alternatives."
There is no current timetable for the rescheduling of the events.
Written by Kevin Nutley
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