Experts have warned that the window for finding survivors under the rubble is closing fast, but many anguished families say a shortage of rescuers and equipment is hurting their chances of saving loved ones.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan is facing growing criticism from families left frustrated by a slow response from rescue teams, as hope dwindles that more survivors will be found. At least 15,865 people across Turkey and Syria are now known to have lost their lives - 12,873 of whom were in Turkey.
Many Turks have complained of a lack of equipment, expertise and support to help those who are trapped - leaving them helpless as they hear cries from under the rubble. During a visit to Hatay province, where more than 3,300 people have died and entire neighbourhoods have been destroyed, Erdogan said: "It is not possible to be prepared for such a disaster. We will not leave any of our citizens uncared for.
" Similar issues are being reported in neighbouring Syria, with the country's UN ambassador conceding the government has a "lack of capabilities and a lack of equipment". Across Turkey and Syria, many of those in areas hardest hit by the 7.8 magnitude quake - and subsequent aftershocks - are afraid of going back into buildings. "We survived the earthquake, but we will die here due to hunger and cold,
" one man in the Turkish city of Antakya said. Some survivors are still being found - with footage showing a young girl in pyjamas and an older man holding an unlit cigarette between his fingers being lifted from debris.