A powerful earthquake has rocked Gansu and Qinghai province in China today, leaving a trail of destruction and a rising death toll. The earthquake, measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale, struck at approximately 11:59 pm local time, catching residents off guard and causing widespread panic.
Search and rescue operations were underway in Gansu province and Qinghai province of China. The earthquake left more than 230 people injured, damaged houses and roads, and knocked out power and communication lines, according to the media reports
Local authorities in China’s Gansu province said, as of 7:50am, 105 were killed in a magnitude-6.2 earthquake and over 4,700 houses were damaged. As of 9:30am, the quake had injured 397, they said at a news conference.
According to the latest reports from local authorities, the current death toll stands at 116. However, rescue efforts are still underway, and the number is expected to rise as search and rescue teams reach more affected areas. The earthquake has also caused significant injuries to numerous individuals, with many being rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located in Moxi town with tremors felt across a wide radius. Buildings, houses, and infrastructure have been severely damaged or collapsed, leading to a massive challenge for rescue teams to navigate through the debris and reach those trapped or in need of assistance.
Emergency response teams, including local authorities, police, and medical personnel, have been mobilized to provide immediate aid to the affected population. Rescue operations are being carried out tirelessly to locate survivors and provide medical attention to those injured. Temporary shelters and relief centers have been set up to accommodate displaced residents who have lost their homes.
The Chinese government has swiftly responded to the disaster by allocating significant resources and deploying additional personnel to the affected region. President Xi Jinping expressed deep condolences for the lives lost and urged all relevant agencies to prioritize rescue efforts and provide necessary support to affected communities.
The earthquake has not only caused devastation in terms of loss of lives but has also disrupted essential services. Power outages have been reported in several areas, hindering communication and making rescue operations more challenging. Efforts are underway to restore electricity and other vital services as quickly as possible.
As news of the earthquake spreads, international organizations and neighboring countries have offered their support and assistance to China during this difficult time. The global community stands ready to provide aid in any form necessary to help affected individuals recover and rebuild their lives.
Authorities are urging residents in the affected areas to remain cautious and follow instructions from emergency personnel. It is essential for everyone’s safety to stay away from damaged structures and obey evacuation orders if necessary. The aftershocks following a seismic event of this magnitude can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
The full extent of the damage caused by the earthquake is still being assessed, and search and rescue operations will continue tirelessly until every individual is accounted for. The priority now is to provide immediate relief to the affected population, restore essential services, and begin the process of rebuilding shattered communities.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for people around the world to come together in solidarity with those affected by this tragic event. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time, as we hope for strength and resilience in the face of this natural disaster.
Reference : http://www.ptinews.com
