Earthquake kills thousands in China

CHENGDU, CHINA -- An earthquake devastated southwestern China, killing close to 10,000 people and trapping hundreds of others under schools, factories and houses, while the worst-hit area was still cut off from rescuers today.

The 7.8 magnitude quake, centred in Sichuan province, struck in the middle of the school day yesterday and toppled at least eight schools. Chemical-laden factories and at least one hospital collapsed, trapping hundreds more, state news media said.

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