A recent earthquake in Gansu Province, northern China, has resulted in at least 111 fatalities and significant material damage.
Location of the earthquake in Gansu Province, China on December 18 (orange dot). (Graphic: USGS).
The China Geological Network reported that the 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck in Zhichashan County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province at 11:59 PM on December 18 (10:59 PM Hanoi time). The epicenter was located at a depth of 10 km.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred approximately 100 km southwest of Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, accompanied by several smaller aftershocks.
At least 111 people have died, and 200 others are injured. According to Xinhua, the earthquake caused significant damage, with many houses cracking or collapsing, forcing local residents to flee outdoors for safety. Power and water supplies were disrupted in several villages in the area.
Rescue workers transport victims to the hospital after the earthquake in Gansu Province, China on December 18. (Photo: Xinhua)
Chinese authorities have mobilized dozens of vehicles and thousands of rescue personnel, along with police, armed forces, firefighters, medical staff, and other units to the affected area.
2,500 tents, 10,000 jackets, 10,000 sets of blankets, 10,000 mattresses, and 10,000 folding beds have been delivered to the locality to assist those affected by the earthquake.
China has recorded numerous strong earthquakes that have caused significant damage. A 5.4 magnitude earthquake in Shandong Province, northeastern China, in August left 21 people injured and caused the collapse of dozens of buildings. Chinese media reported that this was the strongest earthquake in the region in over a decade.
