Northeastern China jolted by magnitude 5.5 earthquake

A shallow magnitude 5.4 earthquake struck eastern China on Sunday, causing injuries to at least 10 people and leading to the collapse of numerous buildings, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). 

The quake, which occurred at 2:33 am local time (1833 GMT Saturday), was centered 26 kilometers (16 miles) south of the city of Dezhou in Shandong province, at a depth of 10 kilometers. Videos shared on social media by area residents depicted shaking light fixtures, trembling ground, and people evacuating their buildings. 

The impact of the earthquake was felt in cities as far away as Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai, highlighting its significant reach.

Reports from Shandong authorities, relayed by state broadcaster CCTV, confirmed that at least 10 individuals were injured and 74 houses or buildings had collapsed due to the earthquake. The initial tremor was followed by 52 aftershocks, amplifying concerns among residents. 

Social media platforms were flooded with accounts of the quake's intensity, with one person sharing, "The tremor was so strong... during the earthquake my head was shaking on the pillow, I thought I was having a nightmare." Another individual expressed their unease, stating, "I can't say anything except that it's scary."

Notably, earthquakes are not uncommon in China, but they rarely impact the eastern part of the country, which is densely populated and home to major cities. 

The event has raised questions about the preparedness of these regions for seismic activities. In response, an official from the Shandong Seismological Bureau attempted to provide reassurance, stating that the possibility of a larger earthquake occurring is "very small," as reported by local media outlets.

As authorities assess the damage and provide assistance to those affected, this incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of natural disasters and the need for continued vigilance and preparation in vulnerable areas.