Earthquake in northwest China kills at least 116
Web Desk
A powerful earthquake in northwest China has claimed the lives of at least 116 individuals, according to state media reports on Tuesday. The catastrophe unfolded as buildings collapsed in the wake of the seismic event, prompting swift efforts from rescue teams to navigate through the rubble amid freezing conditions.
In Gansu province, the epicenter of the quake, 105 people lost their lives, with nearly 400 sustaining injuries, as disclosed by local authorities. Additionally, in the neighboring province of Qinghai, 11 individuals were reported dead, and 100 others were injured, according to information from state broadcaster CCTV.
The earthquake, characterized by its strength and shallow depth, struck around midnight, causing homes to crumble and inflicting substantial damage. Frightened residents rushed to the streets for safety as the tremors reverberated through the region, as described by state news agency Xinhua.
A poignant account from a woman in her thirties, shared on a social media platform associated with the state-run People’s Daily newspaper, depicted the intense fear experienced during the quake. The woman, visibly shaken, described the moment she fled her house, emphasizing the unsettling sounds of the earth giving way.
Heart-wrenching footage from CCTV revealed the aftermath of the disaster, with family belongings strewn amidst the debris of collapsed houses.
As rescue operations commenced in freezing conditions, Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for “all-out efforts” in the search and relief endeavors, underscoring the urgency of addressing this tragic situation.
About Author
