Northwest China recently experienced a potent and shallow earthquake, resulting in at least 111 fatalities, widespread structural damage, and a surge of fear among locals. The quake, striking Gansu province, caused homes to crumble and sent residents rushing into the streets in panic.
Quick response efforts were launched post-disaster, with social media videos showcasing the aftermath—collapsed ceilings and debris scattered across affected zones.
Reportedly, 96 people suffered injuries, as stated by the provincial earthquake relief headquarters. The neighboring Qinghai province, specifically Haidong City, witnessed nine deaths and 124 injuries, according to Xinhua.
The US Geological Survey measured the quake’s magnitude at 5.9, originating 10 kilometers beneath the surface, with the tremors felt at 11:59 pm local time on Monday. The earthquake epicenter was near the Gansu-Qinghai border, close to Haidong.
Contrary to this, Xinhua reported the earthquake’s magnitude as 6.2. Xinhua also mentioned interruptions in water and power supplies in certain localities.
Immediate emergency responses were activated, mobilizing fire departments and other services. Provincial authorities were en route to assess the situation firsthand. The earthquake’s epicenter was roughly 100 kilometers southwest of Lanzhou, Gansu’s capital. Subsequent aftershocks further complicated the recovery efforts in the affected areas.
This seismic event underscores China’s vulnerability to earthquakes. Just earlier in August, eastern China experienced a 5.4-magnitude quake, injuring 23 people and causing structural collapses, reaffirming the region’s recurrent seismic activity.
