A 4.8-magnitude earthquake hit Yongning County, Yinchuan, China, on Thursday at 10 AM, followed by a 4.6-magnitude aftershock later in the day. Emergency teams are responding to local needs. Although there are no casualties reported, significant structural damage has occurred to older buildings and cultural sites, and residents were evacuated to safer areas.
On Thursday, a 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck Yongning County in northwest China’s Yinchuan at approximately 10:00 AM local time, as reported by the China Earthquake Networks Center. The epicenter was situated at 38.4 degrees north latitude and 106.22 degrees east longitude, with a depth of 10 kilometers. A rescue team has been deployed by the Ministry of Emergency Management to assist in local relief activities. Thankfully, there are no reported casualties from the quake.
Later that same day, at 4:43 PM, another earthquake measuring 4.6 occurred in the Jinfeng District of Yinchuan. This aftershock was recorded at 38.41 degrees north latitude and 106.26 degrees east longitude. To ensure safety, numerous residents were evacuated to open spaces, including public squares and playgrounds. Initial damages from the first earthquake included the collapse of outer walls of older residential buildings and injuries to passersby, with several cultural relics also sustaining damage.
The second earthquake exacerbated the situation, leading to further structural failures in multiple aged buildings. Since the beginning of 2024, Yinchuan has recorded at least seven earthquakes, with magnitudes varying between 2.2 and 3.6, indicating increased seismic activity in the region.
Earthquakes are seismic events caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, leading to shaking and potential destruction. In particular, northern China, including Yinchuan in Ningxia, is prone to such geological activities. The recent earthquakes in Yinchuan highlight the region’s vulnerability, drawing attention to ongoing monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts. The engagement of local authorities and the deployment of rescue teams are crucial in mitigating the aftermath of such natural disasters.
In summary, the recent series of earthquakes in Yinchuan, Ningxia, has led to significant structural damage and prompted immediate emergency responses. With no casualties reported, the focus remains on supporting affected communities and assessing damage. The earthquakes serve as a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region and the importance of preparedness and response strategies in local governance.
Original Source: www.bastillepost.com
