China Earthquake: President Xi Jinping Urges ‘All-Out' Rescue Efforts
A powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake has struck China's Gansu and Qinghai provinces, claiming the lives of at least 116 people and leaving nearly 400 injured. The shallow earthquake, which occurred just before midnight, has caused widespread destruction in a remote mountainous region. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for ‘all-out' efforts in the ongoing rescue operations. Here are 10 updates on the recent earthquake and its aftermath:
1. Casualties and injuries:
At least 105 individuals lost their lives in Gansu province, with an additional 11 fatalities reported in Haidong city, Qinghai province. The toll continues to rise as rescue operations unfold, and nearly 400 people have been injured.
2. Epicenter and Timing:
The earthquake, with a focal depth of 10 kilometers, struck Gansu and Qinghai provinces at 11:59 pm on Monday. The epicenter, located in Liugou township, is approximately 8 kilometers from the county seat of Jishishan Bao'an.
3. Destruction and Damage:
The powerful tremor caused homes to collapse and inflicted significant damage to infrastructure. People rushed into the streets for safety as the quake brought chaos to the affected regions.
4. Presidential Directives:
Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued crucial instructions, emphasizing the need for full-scale search and rescue efforts, proper resettlement of affected individuals, and maximum efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property. Premier Li Qiang has also issued instructions aligning with these efforts.
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5. Geological Vulnerability:
Experts have noted that shallow earthquakes, like the recent one, result in heavy damage to infrastructure. Qinghai province, adjacent to the Tibet Himalayan region, is prone to frequent earthquakes due to the shifting of continental plates.
6. Second Quake and Aftershocks:
Hours after the initial earthquake, a second quake struck the neighboring Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Tuesday. A total of 32 aftershocks have been recorded, with the largest registering a magnitude of 4.0, according to Han Shujun, a spokesperson for the provincial emergency management department.
7. Massive Rescue Operations:
The provincial fire and rescue department has mobilized 580 rescuers, supported by 88 fire engines, 12 search and rescue dogs, and over 10,000 sets of equipment. These teams are actively engaged in the disaster area, focusing on search, rescue, and recovery efforts.
8. Structural Damage:
A total of 6,381 houses in Jishishan have been damaged, according to state news agency Xinhua. Footage from CCTV has shown family possessions amidst the debris of collapsed houses.
9. Challenging Conditions:
The temperature in Linxia, Gansu, where the earthquake occurred, was approximately minus 14 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. The challenging weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, are adding complexity to rescue operations.
10. National Response:
As China grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster, the nation is united in its response to provide aid, support, and relief to the affected regions. The international community is also monitoring the situation closely and offering assistance as needed.
In conclusion, the recent earthquake in China has triggered a rapid and comprehensive response from national authorities and rescue teams. The focus remains on saving lives, providing assistance to the injured, and ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by this tragic event.
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