China Earthquake

       A massive and destructive earthquake left parts of China in shambles after hitting on May 12^th, 2008.  The earthquake measured 7.8 on the Richter scale and is the worst quake in three decades.  The quake hit Wenchuan, about 92km northwest of Chengdu, however tremors were felt as far as Wuhan, Shanghai and Beijing, even Vietnam.  Numerous numbers of people were trapped in mounds of concrete and rubble.  A three-story high school collapsed killing and burying many students. 
       Landslides left roads impassible and heavy rains prevented military helicopters from landing.  Traffic jams, no running water, and power outages, were just several of the many issues cause by the aftermath.  Five million people are left homeless by the devastating quakes, and in some areas, 80 percent of buildings in some remote areas near the epicenter were leveled.  Some buildings and apartments are too dangerous to inhabit, due to the danger of aftershocks and damage.  The Chinese President, Hu Jintao, visited two tent manufacturing companies, urging them to raise production to meet the rising needs due to the earthquake.  Thousands were killed and numerous injured.

Last Updated: May 15, 2007
By: Heather G. and Adrienne M.