“7.1-magnitude Earthquake in Xinjiang: China Releases Intensity Map”
The China Earthquake Administration has released an intensity map of the 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Wushi County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on January 23. According to the map, the maximum intensity of the earthquake was IX degree (9 degrees), with an area of 27,926 square kilometers reaching VI degree (6 degree) and above.
The earthquake affected 2 prefectures, 6 counties, and 29 cities in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, as well as 1 regiment field of the First Division of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. A total of 195 survey points were used to determine the intensity distribution, and the results have been compiled into the “Xinjiang Wushi 7.1 magnitude earthquake intensity map”.
The intensity map also outlines the specific areas affected by the earthquake, with the IX degree (9 degrees) area covering 252 square kilometers, the VIII degree (8 degrees) area covering 2,500 square kilometers, the VII degree (7 degrees) area covering 4,506 square kilometers, and the VI degree (6 degrees) area covering 20,668 square kilometers.
The degree of damage corresponding to the earthquake intensity was also detailed, with most civil and brick-wood houses in the IX degree (9 degrees) area being destroyed or seriously damaged, and most brick-concrete houses being severely or moderately damaged.
The release of the intensity map is an important step in assessing the impact of the earthquake and will aid in the coordination of relief efforts and resource allocation to the affected areas. The China Earthquake Administration continues to monitor the situation and provide support as needed.