Sichuan Aftershock

On May 18, 2008, the China Sichuan province suffered a major aftershock following the earthquake that took place only six days before. The aftershock measured 5.7 on the Richter Scale.

Early on May 20, 2008 a local news station quoted a government agency stating that another strong aftershock may be coming. The reported created a frenzy in Chengdu, the city hit hardest by the 7.9 magnitude Sichuan Earthquake that rocked the region on May 12.

On May 25, another aftershock was reported. This one measured at a magnitude of 6.4. It caused approximately 70,000 houses to collapse, killing one person and injuring 400 others.

Following a major Earthquake on May 12, 2008 in the Sichuan province of southwestern China, rescue workers have been hampered by aftershocks. The first and most violent aftershock came within 24 hours of the earthquake and measured 6.1 on the Richter Scale.

During the course of the following week, over 140 aftershocks were felt and measured throughout the region, as death count mounted.

New fears were expressed on May 17 after some dams were revealed to have been damaged, threatening to flood towns in the valleys below them. In addition, these aftershocks have continued the damage, affecting many roadways and bridges.

On May 25, 2008, about two weeks after the earthquake, a strong aftershock rumbled China again.

This aftershock was measured at a magnitude of 6.4 magnitude.

70,000 houses collapsed during this aftershock. One people died and 400 other people were injured.

150,000 people were evacuated due to a possible flood threat caused by the earthquakes.

Military engineers worked on May 27 to dig sluiceways in hopes to drain the water safely.