The 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit northern Armenia was one of the most devastating natural disasters in the region's history. Occurring in the early morning hours, the earthquake struck near Spitak, a city in the Lori Province, causing widespread devastation not only to Spitak but also to the surrounding cities, including Leninakan and Kirovakan. Buildings collapsed instantly, leading to a significant loss of life and rendering hundreds of thousands homeless. Many infrastructure systems, including water and power supply, were severely damaged, complicating rescue and recovery efforts.

In the aftermath, the Soviet government faced criticism for its response and preparedness for such disasters. Poor building standards and lack of effective emergency response protocols exacerbated the human toll. The event highlighted vulnerabilities in earthquake-prone regions, especially under the constraints of cold winter conditions that followed the quake. Local and international aid poured in, but immediate needs were vast, leading to complex logistical challenges.

The emotional and societal scars from this disaster were profound and long-lasting, with many families losing loved ones and their homes in a matter of moments. Recovery took years, as the government and humanitarian organizations worked tirelessly to rebuild the affected areas and provide aid to survivors. The 1988 Armenian earthquake remains a pivotal moment in the study of seismology and disaster preparedness, inspiring changes in building codes and emergency management strategies worldwide.