A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck south China's Guangxi region early Monday, resulting in two fatalities and prompting the evacuation of thousands, according to state media reports. The quake toppled buildings and injured four others, while more than 7,000 residents were evacuated from Liuzhou city.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Authorities reported that the search for several missing individuals concluded around midday Monday after the last trapped person, a 91-year-old man, was found alive and in good condition. State broadcaster CCTV aired footage showing excavators clearing debris from collapsed structures. At least 13 buildings were destroyed, and landslides triggered by the earthquake blocked access roads to the affected area.
Impact on Transportation
Train services around Liuzhou were either canceled or delayed as a result of the earthquake. The disruption added to the challenges faced by emergency responders and residents.
Regional Seismic Activity
Earthquakes occasionally occur in southern China, with more severe tremors typically affecting the mountainous western regions or the eastern area near Taiwan. The most devastating recent earthquake in the country was a 7.9 magnitude event in southwestern Sichuan province in 2008, which left more than 87,000 people dead or missing.
