4.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Xinjiang, China Amid Rising Seismic Activity

Xinjiang, China – November 6, 2025: A moderate earthquake measuring 4.7 on the Richter Scale struck Xinjiang, in northwest China, earlier today. According to seismic authorities, the quake occurred at a depth of 220 kilometers, and no casualties or structural damage have been reported so far.

This seismic event follows a 4.9 magnitude earthquake that occurred in China on October 26 at a depth of 130 km. Over the past few months, Xinjiang and other regions in China have experienced a series of moderate earthquakes, signaling ongoing geological activity in this seismically sensitive zone.

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) has been actively monitoring these quakes. Earlier instances include a 4.2 magnitude earthquake on September 8 at a depth of 50 km and a 4.1 magnitude earthquake on September 7 at a shallow depth of 10 km. Experts note that shallow earthquakes generally pose a greater threat due to stronger ground shaking reaching the surface.

China’s geographical positioning between the circum-Pacific and circum-Indian seismic belts makes it highly prone to earthquakes. The collision and interaction of the Pacific, Indian, and Philippine tectonic plates have created extensive seismic fracture zones across the country. Historically, China has experienced more than 800 earthquakes of magnitude 6 or greater since the early 20th century, affecting nearly all provinces and autonomous regions.

The human cost of earthquakes in China has been significant. Historical records indicate that since 1900, over 550,000 lives have been lost due to earthquakes, accounting for more than half of the global earthquake casualties. Since 1949, more than 100 destructive earthquakes have caused widespread damage, claiming over 270,000 lives and destroying millions of homes.

While the recent 4.7 magnitude earthquake did not result in injuries or damage, experts caution that earthquake preparedness remains crucial. China continues to face challenges from natural disasters, and monitoring seismic activity is essential to minimize risks to life and property.