At least 29 people dead after Haiti earthquake

In Haiti, at least 29 people are dead after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck this morning, according to the country’s civil protection service.

The earthquake was about 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) northeast of Saint-Louis-du-Sud and 10 kilometres deep, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

It says a 5.2 magnitude aftershock hit later in the morning, followed by several more, including a 5.1 magnitude aftershock around noon.

A tsunami threat that had been issued for the region has passed, according to the US Tsunami Warning System.

Haiti is also currently bracing for Tropical Storm Grace, with tropical storm-force winds and heavy rain that could lead to flash flooding forecast for Monday into Tuesday.

A tropical storm watch is likely to be issued for Haiti later Saturday after one was issued for the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.

Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry was on his way to the most devastated areas on Saturday morning, according to his official Twitter account, and has mobilized the government to assess and assist.