Published On: May 19, 2026

A powerful 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck shortly after midnight on May 18, 2026, causing deadly damage across parts of the city and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. According to Chinese authorities and state media reports, the earthquake hit Liunan District at a shallow depth of around 8 kilometers, intensifying the surface shaking.

Officials confirmed that at least 13 buildings collapsed, primarily older residential structures. Two people were killed during the disaster, while four others suffered injuries and were hospitalized. Emergency crews launched large-scale rescue operations involving firefighters, drones, search dogs, and heavy machinery. One of the most widely shared rescue stories involved a 91-year-old man who was pulled alive from rubble hours after the quake.

Authorities also confirmed that more than 7,000 residents were evacuated as a precaution while infrastructure inspections continued throughout the region.

Latest Updates:

Chinese emergency officials later confirmed that search-and-rescue operations for missing persons had concluded by midday after crews cleared the most heavily damaged areas. A 5.1 aftershock was also recorded following the main quake, though no major additional destruction or casualties were immediately reported. Railway lines, roads, and public infrastructure continue undergoing safety inspections as local authorities assess structural damage across affected neighborhoods. Emergency shelters and temporary assistance centers remain active for displaced residents while recovery operations continue.

Earthquake Safety Reminders

Disaster experts recommend:

– Dropping, covering, and holding on during shaking
– Staying away from windows and unstable objects
– Avoiding damaged buildings after tremors stop
– Preparing emergency kits with water, food, flashlights, and medical supplies
– Expecting possible aftershocks following major earthquakes

Officials also advise residents to follow verified government alerts during natural disasters.

Credits 

Video footage and reporting circulated through CCTV, New York Post, Xinhua News Agency, Associated Press, and Chinese state media.

Chinese authorities confirmed the fatalities, evacuations, and rescue operations while maintaining emergency response measures across affected districts in . Officials stated infrastructure assessments and recovery operations remain ongoing. This article is based on verified reports and official statements available as of May 2026. Casualty figures and damage assessments may change as recovery and inspections continue.

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