The China Seismological Bureau reported an earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale in Zigui County, Hubei province on 22 November at 4pm Beijing time. The epicentre was believed to be along the banks of Xiangxi River, a Yangtze tributary only 30km from the Three Gorges Dam. Initial investigation showed that the dam, which is capable of withstanding earthquakes measuring 7 on the Richter scale, had not been affected. Details of casualty and damages were still not clear.
Meanwhile, the Yangtze has started its dry season (November to March). The Three Gorges Reservoir has reduced its water level by one metre to 171.8m and released a total of 1bn cubic metres of water by 19 November to help relieve the drought downstream. The water level immediately downstream of the dam between Yichang and Chenglingji is guaranteed at 2.9 metres all year round.