China's deadliest earthquake in almost a decade claimed more than 130 lives

In sub-zero temperatures, rescue teams searched for survivors after an earthquake in northwest China killed at least 131 people and injured hundreds, state media reported Tuesday.

China's deadliest earthquake in nearly a decade hit Jishishan county in Gansu province late Monday night, destroying homes, roads, and power and communication lines. Residents huddled overnight in the bitter winter cold while rescuers searched for survivors under rubble.

CCTV reported that the Gansu quake killed 113 and injured 772 on Tuesday morning. According to the broadcaster, nearly 15,000 houses collapsed and tens of thousands were evacuated.

The quake hit before midnight while many were sleeping at home. The USGS reported 5.9-magnitude at shallow depths just over 6 miles. China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported 6.2 magnitude.

The epicenter is near the Gansu-Qinghai border, a mountainous region on the eastern Tibetan plateau. According to the CENC, nine magnitude 3+ aftershocks followed the quake by Tuesday morning.

CCTV reported Tuesday that Gansu and Qinghai had power. It is vital to the areas' heating needs.