A powerful earthquake hit the mountainous area of northwest China on Monday night, causing widespread damage and killing at least 127 people, according to the authorities. The quake, which measured 8.0 on the Richter scale, was the deadliest in China since the 2008 Sichuan earthquake that killed nearly 90,000 people. The epicenter was located 80 kilometers west-northwest of Chengdu, the provincial capital of Sichuan, with a depth of 19 kilometers. The quake was felt as far away as Beijing and Shanghai and triggered landslides and power outages in the affected region.
The earthquake struck at 10:28 p.m. local time when many people were asleep or preparing for bed. The tremors lasted for more than two minutes, shaking buildings and sending people running into the streets. Many residents were left out in the cold as the temperature dropped to minus 5 degrees Celsius. Some people lit fires to keep warm, while others searched for their relatives and friends under the rubble. The rescue efforts were hampered by the darkness, the remote location, and the lack of communication and transportation.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene, facing challenges and risks
The Chinese government quickly mobilized thousands of soldiers, police, firefighters, and medical workers to the disaster zone, along with helicopters, drones, and heavy machinery. President Xi Jinping ordered all-out efforts to save lives and minimize casualties and urged the local authorities to provide timely and accurate information to the public. He also expressed his condolences and sympathy to the victims and their families and pledged to provide all necessary support and assistance.
However, the rescue teams faced many challenges and risks in their mission. The roads leading to the quake-hit area were blocked by landslides, debris, and cracks, making it difficult to transport personnel and supplies. The aftershocks, which numbered more than 200, posed a constant threat of further damage and casualties. The harsh weather conditions, such as snow, rain, and strong winds, also added to the difficulties. Some of the villages in the epicenter were destroyed, and the survivors were in urgent need of food, water, shelter, and medical care.
An Earthquake sparks public concern and international response
The earthquake in northwest China drew widespread attention and concern from the public and the media, both domestically and internationally. Many people expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the victims and donated money and materials to the relief efforts. Some celebrities and influencers also used their platforms to raise awareness and funds for the cause. The social media platforms, such as Weibo and WeChat, were flooded with messages of support and prayers for the quake-hit region.
The international community also responded swiftly and positively to the disaster. Many countries and organizations offered their condolences and assistance to China and praised its swift and effective response. The United Nations, the European Union, the United States, Russia, Japan, India, and Pakistan were among the entities that sent messages of sympathy and solidarity. Some of them also pledged to provide humanitarian aid and technical support for the relief efforts. The earthquake demonstrated the common humanity and compassion that transcended borders and differences.
