Twin Chinese Quakes Kill Dozens

An estimated 54 people were killed and more than 300 injured early Monday morning when twin earthquakes struck Dingxi in the remote, mountainous Gansu province. Officials said that rescuers are still trying to reach the victims and that more than 21,000 buildings were “severely damaged”—and 1,200 collapsed. The initial earthquake, measured at a 5.9 magnitude by the U.S. Geological Survey, struck at 7:45 a.m., followed by a 5.6-magnitude tremor at 9:12 a.m. Pictures on state television showed rural villages with rubble-strewn streets. Rain is predicted for later in the day—which could hamper rescue efforts.