On June 21, 1990, Iran was hit by one of the greatest earthquakes recorded in human history. The 7.7 Manjil-Rudbar earthquake hit the country's northwest region, causing widespread damage and a tremendous loss of life.

The disaster struck at 12:30 AM when most people were peacefully sleeping in their homes. Entire cities were reduced to rubbles, and the government of Iran was forced to accept help from the west despite existing political wrangles.

Quick Facts About the Manjil-Rudbar Earthquake:

• At least 50,00 people lost their lives.
• The National Geophysical Data Center contends that the affected areas suffered approximately $8 billion in damages.
• Iran decided to send relief workers from the US and other western nations back to their countries despite the pending provision of critical assistance.
• The aftershock was so severe that it burst a dam situated in Rasht.
• The number of injured people was estimated at 60,000-105,000 on top of those who lost their lives. It is impossible to determine the exact figure for these statistics, especially considering the possibility that some people who were buried in the debris were never found.
• The Iranian government accepted aid from the USA but refused help from South Africa and Israel.