Hefei Hit by 4.7-Magnitude Earthquake, Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant
A magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck Feidong County in Hefei, Anhui Province, China at 8:08 pm local time on September 18, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center. The epicenter of the quake was located at 31.98 degrees north latitude and 117.60 degrees east longitude, with a shallow depth of 12 kilometers.
18 September 2024
Eyewitnesses took to social media to share their experiences, with one user posting a video showing a camera that had fallen due to the quake. Another user noted that this was not the first time Hefei had experienced an earthquake in recent days, recalling a previous quake that occurred on the 13th.
The quake serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness and safety measures. According to experts, in the event of an earthquake, individuals should quickly assess their surroundings and seek safety. Those in low-rise buildings should evacuate immediately, while those in mid-to-high-rise buildings should open their doors to prevent them from becoming jammed. It is also crucial to disconnect electrical and gas supplies to prevent fires and electrocution. However, experts warn against seeking shelter in kitchens and balconies, which are not safe zones in the event of an earthquake. Instead, individuals should seek cover under sturdy furniture, such as a dining table, and stay in a small, enclosed space that is less prone to collapse.
In the wake of the recent earthquake in Hefei, it is crucial to remember the essential steps to take to ensure your safety during an earthquake. If you are indoors, quickly judge whether you are in a safe location. If you are on a lower floor, immediately exit the building and move to an open area with no risk of falling debris. If you are on a higher floor and cannot quickly exit the building, open your door to prevent it from becoming jammed due to earthquake damage. Turn off electricity and gas supplies to prevent fires and electrical accidents. Use available objects, such as pillows or cushions, to protect your head and take cover under sturdy furniture, like a dining table. The best rooms to seek shelter in are those with small openings, as they tend to be more stable and can create a triangular space that can provide protection in case of a building collapse.
It is also important to avoid hiding in kitchens and balconies, as they are not safe during an earthquake. Stay calm and prioritize your safety above all else. By following these simple steps, you can increase your chances of staying safe during an earthquake. Remember, preparedness is key to minimizing risks and protecting yourself and your loved ones.
The Hefei earthquake zone, where the recent 4.7-magnitude quake struck, has a history of seismic activity. Located in the Anhui province of eastern China, the region is situated near the intersection of several major fault lines, making it prone to earthquakes. According to records, the Hefei area has experienced several significant earthquakes in the past, including a 5.3-magnitude quake in 2001 that caused widespread damage and injuries. More recently, a series of smaller earthquakes have hit the region, including a 3.4-magnitude quake just days before the latest incident.
The China Earthquake Administration has designated the Hefei area as a region of moderate seismic activity, with a high likelihood of earthquakes occurring in the future. The administration has implemented measures to improve earthquake preparedness and response in the region, including the construction of earthquake-resistant buildings and the conduct of regular evacuation drills. Despite these efforts, the recent earthquake highlights the ongoing seismic risks faced by the region. The quake caused widespread panic, with many residents taking to social media to share their experiences and seek information on how to stay safe during earthquakes.
As news of the Hefei earthquake spread, social media platforms were filled with reactions and safety tips from concerned citizens. On Weibo, user "七月妹妹GZY" shared a video of a camera that had fallen due to the earthquake, reminding her followers to "learn more about earthquake safety knowledge." Meanwhile, "生命时报" (Life Times) posted a detailed guide on what to do during an earthquake, including evacuating to a safe area, cutting off electricity and gas supplies, and seeking cover under sturdy furniture.
Other users, such as "一颗小虎头" (Little Tiger Head), expressed relief that the earthquake did not seem to have caused widespread damage, recalling a similar earthquake that had occurred in Hefei just a few days prior. Official accounts, like "中国地震台网速报" (China Earthquake Networks Center), provided timely updates on the earthquake's magnitude, epicenter, and depth, while also soliciting feedback from users who had experienced the quake.
Through these online exchanges, social media played a significant role in disseminating critical safety information and facilitating a sense of community among those affected by the earthquake. By sharing their experiences and tips, users helped to promote a culture of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
In the aftermath of the quake, local authorities have announced plans to conduct a thorough assessment of the region's earthquake preparedness and response measures, with a view to identifying areas for improvement and strengthening the region's resilience to seismic activity. As the region continues to grow and develop, it is clear that earthquake risk mitigation will remain a top priority for local authorities and residents alike.