The 2003 Bam earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, destroyed over 80% of buildings in the Iranian city of Bam and killed over 26,000 people, more than half the population. In just 10 seconds, the city crumbled, leaving thousands homeless. International aid arrived to set up temporary housing and infrastructure as survivors struggled in the aftermath. Rebuilding Bam safely and properly will cost an estimated $1 billion and require improved construction standards to prevent similar devastation from future quakes.