Major earthquake hits: China Kyrgyzstan border
In a seismic event early on Tuesday, a substantial earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 rattled China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, particularly in the vicinity of the country's border with Kyrgyzstan. The China Earthquake Administration reported that the quake occurred at approximately 2:09 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located in Aksu Prefecture and the focus estimated to be 22 kilometers below the surface.
The state-run China Central Television (CCTV) has conveyed that the impact of the earthquake has resulted in several injuries and the collapse of houses. Immediate rescue operations are underway to address the aftermath and assist those affected.
Reports from Kyrgyzstan indicate that the seismic activity was also strongly felt in the capital, Bishkek, emphasizing the cross-border impact of the earthquake.
Authorities in the affected regions are mobilizing resources to respond to the situation and provide assistance to those in need. The precise extent of the damage and the number of casualties are still being assessed, and updates are expected as the situation unfolds.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in this seismically active region, and both China and Kyrgyzstan have experienced similar events in the past. The collaboration between the two nations and neighboring regions will be crucial in managing the consequences of this seismic event.
As rescue and relief efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents, addressing immediate needs, and assessing the full impact of the earthquake on the affected areas. The international community is likely to monitor the situation closely and offer support as needed.