Yinchuan, China, was hit by two significant earthquakes, measuring 4.8 and 4.6 in magnitude. The initial quake caused structural damage and prompted evacuation, while a rescue team was deployed. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported. These events reflect ongoing seismic activity in the region, with several previous tremors noted since the beginning of 2024.
A 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck Yongning County in Yinchuan, northwest China, on Thursday morning at approximately 10:00 Beijing Time, as reported by the China Earthquake Networks Center. The epicenter was identified at coordinates 38.4 degrees north latitude and 106.22 degrees east longitude, and the earthquake occurred at a depth of about 10 kilometers. Following the initial tremor, a rescue team was deployed to assist with local relief operations, although no casualties were reported at that time.
Later in the day, at 16:43, a subsequent earthquake registering a magnitude of 4.6 affected Jinfeng District in Yinchuan. The epicenter for this aftershock was located at 38.41 degrees north latitude and 106.26 degrees east longitude. As a precautionary measure, many residents evacuated to open areas, including public squares and playgrounds, in response to the seismic activity. Reports indicated that the initial earthquake caused considerable damage, collapsing the outer structures of several older residential buildings and resulting in injuries to individuals nearby. Furthermore, numerous cultural relics sustained damage from the tremors.
The subsequent 4.6-magnitude earthquake exacerbated the destruction, leading to the collapse of additional components from various aging buildings. Since the onset of 2024, Yinchuan has experienced at least seven earthquakes ranging from magnitudes of 2.2 to 3.6, indicating an ongoing seismic activity in the region.
Earthquakes pose significant risks to infrastructure and public safety, particularly in areas with vulnerable buildings. The 4.8 and 4.6-magnitude earthquakes that struck Yinchuan, China, exemplify the challenges faced by local authorities when managing disaster response and recovery. The Ministry of Emergency Management’s swift deployment of rescue teams highlights the urgency in addressing the aftermath of seismic events. Furthermore, awareness of increasing seismic activity, as evidenced by multiple earthquakes in the region since early 2024, underscores the need for enhanced preparedness measures for future incidents.
In summary, the recent sequence of earthquakes in Yinchuan, China, including magnitudes of 4.8 and 4.6, has caused damage to buildings and cultural sites while prompting immediate relief efforts by local authorities. Although no casualties have been reported thus far, the incidents reflect the ongoing seismic risks in the area, emphasizing the necessity for communities to remain vigilant and prepared for potential future earthquakes.
Original Source: www.bastillepost.com
