Powerful and destructive earthquake strikes Kyrgyzstan-China border

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Ush County in the Aksu region of Xinjiang in northwest China, injuring six people.

The dramatic CCTV footage shows the buildings violently shaking.

The destruction is widespread, with varying degrees of damage reported across the county. So far, the calamity has left 2 people critically injured and 4 with minor injuries. A staggering 47 houses have collapsed, 78 have been damaged, and 6 sheep pens have fallen.

In a swift response, emergency services have worked tirelessly to restore essential services. Power, water, and heating supplies have been reinstated in the county town and surrounding townships.

The G219 highway is now fully operational, but the S306 highway has been obstructed at two locations due to fallen rocks, as well as one blockage near Kongwulaqi Village in Sumutas Township.

Amid the chaos, rescue teams and local authorities are efficiently setting up emergency tents to ensure that everyone affected by the disaster is adequately sheltered and taken care of.

The video above was provided by local media with permission.

Header image: File photo via Canva Pro.