Massive Earthquake Hit Yunnan

A 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck Ludian County in southwest China’s Yunnan Province on August 3. The strongest to hit the province in 14 years, it killed more than 600 people and destroyed 80,000 homes in Ludian and surrounding areas.

Though many Chinese are still struggling to shake off memories of the 2008 quake in Sichuan, past experience with disaster relief proved crucial this time, and the country’s quick and efficient emergency response won praise from the public.

Minutes after the earthquake struck, a 115-strong emergency rescue team from the People’s Liberation Army’s Chengdu Military Area Command was already en route to the epicenter in Longtoushan Township. Another 1,100 troops carrying engineering equipment left about the same time, as did three PLA medical units of 600 people with mobile hospital equipment.

An hour after the quake, tents, quilts, folding beds, and cotton-padded clothes were pouring into the once picturesque region that has been reduced to piles of debris.

By August 5, the number of military rescuers had increased to nearly 10,000, with soldiers from across the country joining the ranks. Six military helicopters and two cargo planes are helping with the rescue.

Chinese leaders, meanwhile, called for “all-out efforts” to save lives. In his instructions issued on August 3, Xi ordered authorities to give top priority to saving people’s lives, minimize casualties, and guarantee a proper settlement for quake victims.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang flew to Yunnan in the early morning of August 4, walking over five kilometers on bumpy roads to reach the quake’s epicenter.

The Chinese public and the international community offered generous help to quake victims. Within a week Yunnan Province received more than RMB 479 million in cash donations plus donations of food, clothing and other relief materials valued at RMB 140 million.

Many foreign leaders and international organizations sent condolence messages to the Chinese government.

Two children in Longtoushan Town, Ludian County, Yunnan Province prepare instant noodles for their breakfast on August 7, 2014.

An agrotechnician disinfects pigsties on August 8, 2014 in the Ludian quake hit area.