A magnitude-5.1 earthquake struck Qiaojia County in southwest China's Yunnan Province on Monday, January 19, 2026, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). The tremor occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, with local authorities initiating emergency response protocols immediately after the event.
While initial reports indicate no casualties, infrastructure teams are currently assessing damage to buildings and transportation networks in the mountainous region. Yunnan, located on the seismically active eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, has experienced 14 earthquakes above magnitude 4.0 since 2020, according to CENC historical data.
Residents reported feeling strong shaking lasting approximately 10 seconds, with aftershocks continuing through the afternoon. The provincial government has mobilized rescue teams and temporary shelters as a precautionary measure. Seismologists emphasize this event aligns with the region's typical seismic patterns and urge calm.
