A 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Northwest China early on April 14. UCC/Global Ministries partner, Amity Foundation, reports the quake struck Yushu County at 7:49 a.m. at a depth of about 33 km (20.5 mi.) The epicenter was only 30 km (18.5 mi) away from the downtown area of Yushu County of Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The initial death toll is reported to be 400 with over 10,000 injured.

An Amity emergency assessment team is preparing to travel and will reach the Yushu area tomorrow morning. The team will coordinate with the Qinghai Science and Technology Association, Amity's local partner in the area, and travel nonstop to the quake-hit area. Conducting and assessment of the damage, the team will communicate needs to partners in Xining where the rescue and needy goods are to be purchased.

The Associated Press reports the provincial government is sending 5,000 tents and 100,000 coats to the mountainous region where spring temperatures remain below freezing. Officials are also hurrying to release water from a nearby reservoir that developed a crack during the quake, posing a potential flood danger.
 
An immediate One Great Hour of Sharing Emergency Solidarity grant is being wired to Amity Foundation today. Further information and updates on the quake and Global Ministries' response can be found at the UCC's Disaster Ministries site.