Beijing China Embassy Chengdu Earthquake Warden Message of May 12, 2008

Chengdu Earthquake Warden Message of May 12, 2008

To all American Citizens residing in Sichuan Province and Chongqing Municipality.  A magnitude 7.9 earthquake occurred this afternoon, May 12, 2008, in an area 56 miles Northwest of Chengdu.  The Consulate General in Chengdu is deeply concerned for your welfare.  Please, as soon as you are able, send an e-mail message to the Consular Section at consularchengdu@state.gov

If you are no longer in the area, please feel free to let us know.  If you have any additional information which will be of assistance in helping us assess the damage, particularly those of you closest to the epicenter, please pass that on as well.

Reported damage around Chengdu thus far seems to be limited to water mains and pipe systems, though there have been unconfirmed reports of moderate damage and injuries in other areas such as Chongqing and reports of far more serious damage near the epicenter of the earthquake.   The Sichuan, Chengdu and other regional authorities are assessing the damage.

The Consulate General is located at No 4 Lingshiguan Lu, Chengdu.  Tel: 028-8558-3992.  For after-hours emergencies please dial 1370-800-1422