In the most devastating earthquake to hit China in years, a powerful 6.2 magnitude quake struck Gansu province in north-western China around midnight on Monday, also impacting neighbouring Qinghai.
The aftermath has resulted in a tragic loss of at least 126 lives, and more than 700 individuals reported injured, with concerns that the death toll could rise further. In response to the disaster, Chinese President Xi Jinping has directed the deployment of thousands of rescue personnel to assist in the affected region, which is characterized by economic challenges and cultural diversity.
On Tuesday, state TV and social media platforms displayed heart-wrenching scenes of entire villages torn apart by the quake, along with collapsed buildings and homes. Residents who evacuated their homes were depicted braving harsh conditions in makeshift camps as temperatures plummeted to -13°C (8.7°F).
Survivors recounted the terrifying experience, likening the tremors to “being tossed by surging waves” and describing the urgency with which they evacuated their residences. One individual, identified as Mr. Qin by Chinese media, shared the harrowing account of waking his family and rushing down all 16 floors in a single breath to escape the quake’s impact. The tragic incident highlights the immediate need for extensive rescue and relief efforts in the affected areas.
