China Earthquake Update April 15, 2010
 
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April 15, 2010
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China – Earthquake
Disaster Response Report 1
April 14, 2010
BACKGROUND
A 6.9 magnitude earthquake hit northwest China's Qinghai Province at 7:49am local time on April 14, 2010. Its epicenter was 31 miles from Jiegu Township, the government seat of the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yushu. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, this is the strongest quake to hit the remote mountainous area since 1976.
K
EY DEVELOPMENTS
According to the Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs, current estimates indicate 400 dead and 10,000 injured and these figures are expected to rise. In addition, 90% of houses in Yushu county have collapsed. Many people remain buried under the debris and at least one school collapsed, causing the deaths of five children.
The Chinese government responded immediately, sending military army and emergency response teams to support a rescue operation in Yushu county. The excavation process is hindered by limited equipment in the area and difficult road conditions.
The Qinghai branch of the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) is responding. The RCSC has sent teams to the region to assist local branches in responding and has immediately released relief supplies from their regional warehouses.
Although international assistance has not been requested, the American Red Cross is making available up to $50,000 in support of the Red Cross response, as needs are determined.
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N
UMBERS AT A GLANCE
Deaths
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400
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Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs – 4/14/10
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Injured
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10,000
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Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs – 4/14/10
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American Red Cross Commitment
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$50,000
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American Red Cross – 4/14/10
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