Strong 5.4-Magnitude Quake Rocks Eastern China
A sharp 5.4-magnitude earthquake jolted eastern China in the early hours of Sunday, wreaking havoc across Shandong province. The shallow quake struck 26 kilometres south of Dezhou city at a depth of just 10 kilometres, making it the strongest tremor in the region for over a decade.
Widespread Impact Felt Up to 800 Kilometres Away
The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the quake at 2:33 am local time, with shockwaves shaking cities as distant as Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai—almost 800 kilometres away. Social media exploded with videos showing flickering lights, trembling buildings, and panicked residents rushing outside to safety.
Damage, Injuries and Aftershocks Spark Alarm
State media reports confirm at least 21 people injured and 126 homes and structures collapsed. The USGS issued a red alert via its PAGER system, warning of potentially severe damage and casualties based on quake history.
- Over 50 aftershocks rattled the region following the main tremor.
- AFP journalists near the epicentre noted cracked walls and scattered bricks in rural Pingyuan county.
- Local residents, including elderly women, were seen pitching in to help rebuild damaged structures.
Emergency Teams Deployed as Residents Count Losses
Deng Hongqiang, a local, described being abruptly woken by the quake, saying his old house will need demolition and rebuilding.
China’s Ministry of Emergency Management launched a level-four emergency response, sending rescue teams to Shandong. CCTV footage showed rescuers in bright red uniforms setting up first aid stations on a school athletics field.
Officials Calm Fears of Bigger Quake
Though earthquakes are common in China, the densely populated eastern region usually escapes severe seismic activity. Shandong Seismological Bureau officials have reassured the public that the chance of a larger earthquake is “very small.”
