6.6 million people affected in Nepal earthquake: UN Office in Nepal

KATHMANDU - An estimated 6.6 million people live in 30 districts were affected by the 7.9 magnitude earthquake which struck Nepal on Saturday, the United Nations Office in Nepalese capital Kathmandu said in a statement on Sunday morning.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator to Nepal Jamie McGoldrick met with the officials of the Nepalese government to offer assistance and discuss requirements for the response, the UN Nepal official said in the statement.

"We are ready to assist the Government of Nepal to respond to this terrible tragedy," said the resident coordinator, adding "all efforts will be made to assist those who need our help."

With the epicenter in Lamjung District, tremors were felt across Nepal while the earthquake triggered an avalanche in the Mount Qomolangma area, burying parts of a mountain base camp.

"Over ten strong aftershocks were felt within the first few hours after the earthquake. Rescue and relief operations may be hampered with the monsoon fast approaching," the statement said.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office in Kathmandu and other UN agencies are planning to work under the leadership of the Nepalese government with the support of a United Nations Disaster Assessment Team (UNDAC).

A UN team has arrived Sunday morning in Kathmandu to assist in identifying the most immediate need of those affected by the quake, the UN office said.

"It is essential that we move quickly and effectively," said the coordinator. "We need to ensure that no further lives are lost and the needs of the most vulnerable prioritized."