Search crews are scrambling to find survivors of the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria that have claimed the lives of at least 4,300 people.

The first international rescue missions have arrived. People trapped under the rubble are enduring near-freezing temperatures.

A magnitude 7.8 quake struck southeastern Turkey and northwest Syria in the early hours on Monday, as many people were still sleeping.

There were dozens of aftershocks in the hours that followed, including one that registered a magnitude of 7.5. Thousands of buildings collapsed. Turkish leaders say it is the "biggest disaster" in the nation since an earthquake struck in 1939.

The quakes have brought more destruction and misery to Syria, which has been wracked by years of conflict.

One survivor said, "The quake was very severe, very scary. We were hearing sounds from all over the place. It took almost two minutes for the shaking to stop."

Many residents fled their homes in the cold and rain. Rescuers are racing to free others. Near freezing temperatures have been recorded in some areas.

Countries around the world have been quick to respond to requests for help. On Monday, rescue missions from Lebanon, Romania and other nations arrived at the city of Adana in southern Turkey.

Countries have rushed to send personnel, equipment, and humanitarian aid.

US President Joe Biden said his administration will provide "any and all needed assistance."

Japan has also joined the rescue effort. Six firefighters departed from Tokyo's Haneda Airport late on Monday. Tokyo police are also planning to send officers and rescue dogs to the affected regions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent emergency teams after he called the leaders of Turkey and Syria.