This event is another reality check for the GADR. We must continue and accelerate our efforts throughout the world to integrate enhanced political and technical capacity for disaster reduction in our urban development and construction programs. I am requesting colleagues and members of GADR in China and others who have specific information to provide additional information through a short report for the benefit of the GADR and others. "The wise learn from the disasters that strike others; the foolish continue making the same mistakes and experiencing disasters."

Sincerely,
Walter Hays

Preliminary Report: FEBRUARY 24, 2003 EARTHQUAKE IN WESTERN CHINA

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the western part of the Xinjiang Province, near the mountainous border with Kyrgyzstan on Monday morning. According to the New China News Agency, in one village in Bachu County in the Province, more than 1,000 buildings and houses collapsed. Schools were especially vulnerable to the strong ground shaking. The town of Chongku Qiake in Bachu County was badly damaged. According to the New China News Agency, at least 257 died and thousands were injured. Tens of thousands were left homeless and exposed to the winter weather. Search and rescue teams were reported to be enroute to help.