Two major earthquakes struck Nepal in April and May 2015, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The 7.8 magnitude earthquake on April 25 killed thousands and destroyed over half a million homes. A second 7.9 magnitude quake on May 12 struck the same region as recovery efforts were underway, pushing the total death toll over 8,500 people, making it the deadliest disaster in Nepal's history. The earthquakes severely damaged important cultural sites and are estimated to have cost Nepal 35% of its annual GDP due to loss of infrastructure, housing and impact on agriculture. International organizations have pledged hundreds of millions in aid to help Nepal recover and rebuild from the devastating quakes.