Of course the big story this week in China is the earthquake that hit rural Yushu County in Qinghai province yesterday morning. The remoteness of the region means that information is only now starting to trickle out as rescue workers struggle to get in and begin the process of reaching those trapped in the rubble. So far over 500 people have been confirmed killed with several thousands of others injured. Sadly, with some reports estimating that 80-90% of structures in some areas having collapsed or been seriously damaged by the quake in some areas, these numbers are likely to climb steadily in the days and weeks to follow.
China of course has lived through this before, most recently in 2008 in Sichuan.
So far, YJ hasn’t gotten the call to head out west. She was on the ground in Sichuan 24 hours after the quake and spent a week sleeping outside or in a camping tent while her paper covered the story in 2008. Fingers crossed she doesn’t have to go this time.
More importantly, I’m sure the world’s thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their rescuers on this day. Let us hope for the best.