6.2 Magnitude Earthquake in China Kills 118

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the northwestern mountainous region of China early Tuesday morning local time (December 19, 2023).

According to *CNBC*, the earthquake caused at least 118 deaths and 500 injuries. Numerous homes and roads were severely damaged, and power and communication lines were temporarily disrupted.

Search and rescue operations are still underway in Gansu and Qinghai provinces, the areas closest to the epicenter.

Han Shujun, spokesperson for the Gansu Provincial Emergency Management Department, detailed that 105 people died in Gansu and 397 were injured, including 16 in critical condition. Meanwhile, 13 deaths and 182 injuries were reported in Qinghai, according to data received this morning.

The reported numbers may increase, as 20 people remain missing in Qinghai after being buried in a landslide, according to *China News Service*.

The earthquake's depth was relatively shallow, only 10 kilometers. However, it was felt across a wide area, including the Gansu capital, Lanzhou, located approximately 100 kilometers from the epicenter.

A Lanzhou University student testified to the earthquake's intensity, sharing photos and videos.

"The earthquake was too violent. My legs went weak, especially when running downstairs from the dormitory," said Wang Xi, the student.