Beijing Earthquake Agency assures low risk despite 4.2-magnitude quake in Hebei

No significant short-term precursors indicate a major earthquake of magnitude 5 or above in the near future, and the probability of such an event remains low, according to the Beijing Earthquake Agency on Wednesday morning.

A 4.2-magnitude earthquake struck Yongqing county in Langfang city, Hebei province, at 1:21 am on Wednesday. The epicenter was located 13 km from Beijing and at a depth of 20 km.

As of 7 am on Wednesday, three aftershocks were recorded, with the largest measuring 2.9 magnitude.

The agency said the quake was felt in most parts of Beijing, with the highest intensity reaching 4 degrees, well below the city's seismic fortification standards. No building damage has been reported, and everyday life and production in the capital have not been affected.

A resident surnamed Li in Chaoyang district said she felt the quake while sleeping. "I woke up. But it happened quickly and just ended. So I didn't run out."