Social experiences and vulnerability after the February 6 earthquake: The case of Osmaniye

This study includes semi-structured interviews about the effects of the February 6 earthquake, the worst disaster of the Turkish century, on the citizens living in Osmaniye and how the earthquake victims lived their lives as a result of these effects. The research aims to repair the material and spiritual damage caused by natural disasters, especially those left behind by disasters, and to take the necessary measures by providing real-life examples of disasters that are likely to occur after that. Turkey is a country that is constantly exposed to disasters due to its location. Earthquakes are the most common type of disaster among these disasters. Decadal earthquakes are the most common type of disaster. since the 1900s, many diseases with moderate and high severity have appeared. The most severe of these earthquakes is undoubtedly the February 6, 2023 earthquake. This earthquake, which brought social life almost to a standstill, has led to social, economic and physical destruction in the lives of living things. Healing the damage caused after earthquakes of high intensity and long duration in a short period of time December will not be easy as it is after every disaster. The data have revealed that each age group has been affected by this disaster in different ways. This earthquake, which has a deep impact on the psychology of children, especially at a young age, will not be erased from their memories no matter how long it takes. The vulnerability of individuals who are described as a fragile group in the literature(such as women and people with disabilities) and who are already vulnerable becomes more visible after disasters. It is very important that the policies produced during the disaster preparedness phase can appeal to all segments. It enables the formation of disaster-resistant societies after the necessary planning can be made and implemented. As a result, this disaster, which is described as a "small apocalypse", has damaged the daily life routines of nature, people, animals and even plants.The results of the research constitute the implementation of laws aimed at taking the necessary precautions and measures for disasters that have occurred and are likely to occur later, and for the relevant institutions to fulfill their duties. Keywords: disaster, disaster management February 6 earthquake, vulnerability, social awareness.