A 4.8-magnitude earthquake hit Yinchuan, China, on Thursday, followed by a 4.6-magnitude aftershock. Rescue teams have been deployed, and there are no reported casualties, although significant damage has occurred to buildings and cultural sites. Yinchuan has been experiencing increased seismic activity in 2024.
On Thursday, a 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck Yongning County in Yinchuan, located in northwest China, at approximately 10:00 AM Beijing Time, as reported by the China Earthquake Networks Center. The earthquake’s epicenter was recorded at a latitude of 38.4 degrees north and longitude of 106.22 degrees east, with a depth of around 10 kilometers. Following the quake, a rescue team was promptly dispatched to assist with relief efforts throughout the affected regions, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported thus far.
Later in the day, at 4:43 PM, another earthquake of magnitude 4.6 was detected in Jinfeng District, also in Yinchuan. This second quake’s epicenter was situated at latitude 38.41 degrees north and longitude 106.26 degrees east. In the wake of this aftershock, numerous residents were relocated to public squares and open spaces for safety, as confirmed by local sources. The initial earthquake was notably destructive, damaging the outer walls of various older residential buildings and resulting in injuries to passersby, along with local cultural relics being harmed. The subsequent tremor exacerbated the situation, leading to more collapses from aged structures. Furthermore, since the commencement of 2024, Yinchuan has experienced at least seven seismic events ranging from magnitudes of 2.2 to 3.6, indicating an increased seismic activity in the region.
Earthquake occurrences are a critical concern for regions in China, particularly in Yinchuan, where the geological conditions are conducive to seismic activity. The reported magnitude of earthquakes provides a measure of their potential destructiveness, and recent events underscore the importance of emergency management measures in mitigating risks for affected populations. The role of local authorities and rescue teams is vital in responding to such natural disasters, ensuring the safety of citizens and the preservation of historical sites. Understanding the seismic patterns in Yinchuan can aid in future preparedness initiatives.
In summary, the 4.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Yinchuan was followed closely by another significant tremor, prompting swift action from emergency management teams. While initial reports indicate no fatalities, there has been notable destruction to infrastructure, prompting the need for ongoing assessment and recovery efforts. The persistent seismic activity in Yinchuan highlights the importance of preparedness in addressing the challenges associated with earthquakes in this region.
Original Source: www.bastillepost.com
