The quake killed more than 380 people: thousands are wounded, more than 60 thousand displaced. The affected area is unreachable because of torrential rains, causing a series of landslides blocking all communications. The diocese launches a chain of prayers and collects basic necessities to send to the population.

Beijing (AsiaNews) - Catholics across China are at the forefront in helping survivors of the devastating earthquake that rocked the province of Yunnanlast August 3 with prayers and material goods. The quake occurred 10 kilometers underground in the Zhaotong area: with a magnitude of 6.5 on the Richter scale, the quake killed more than 380 people and injured thousands. Over 12 thousand houses have collapsed, and 30 thousand more have severe structural damage: the evacuees are almost 60 thousand.

The Hebei Jinde Charity, a Catholic volunteer organization, has sent some of its representatives to the affected area. According to initial reports, the situation is dire: the population is living under torrential rains that have blocked streets, there is no power and shelter and medicines are lacking. Much of the aid, governmental and private, is still about 6 miles from the area because of constant landslides that prevent transport. 

Several dioceses in the country have launched a chain of prayers for the victims and survivors, along with a collection of basic materials and goods to be sent to those who need it most. The Jinde has asked Catholics to "pray for these our suffering brothers and sisters by offering love to the survivors and paying attention to the news. Hopefully we can get to the affected area as soon as possible."

 

 

 

 

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