Earthquake in eastern China: houses collapsed and at least 21 people injured

A strong earthquake hit eastern China on Sunday. The quake caused houses to collapse and injured at least 21 people. More specifically, the incident led to the collapse of 126 homes, as indicated by China Central Television and various news sources. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities.

According to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC), the quake’s magnitude was 5.5 and struck near Dezhou city, situated approximately 300 kilometers south of Beijing, the capital. However, the U.S. Geological Survey assessed the magnitude as 5.4. Moreover, the quake, with a depth of around 10 kilometers below the surface, had its impact felt in Beijing, although no damage was reported there.

Footage displayed on television and social media showcased Dezhou residents seeking safety on sidewalks after the quake, with fallen bricks from damaged walls visible. Authorities were inspecting train lines for potential damage, while the China News Service reported gas service interruptions due to pipe damage. In all, the Geological Survey's National Earthquake Information Center explained that the closer an earthquake is to the surface, the more intense its effects are likely to be.