A magnitude 5.2 earthquake jolted southern China on Wednesday, leading to the collapse of more than a dozen buildings and claiming the lives of at least two people. The tremor struck in the region, causing widespread damage and prompting immediate rescue efforts.

The earthquake's epicentre was located in an area that has experienced seismic activity in the past. The force of the 5.2 magnitude quake was significant enough to cause substantial structural damage to older and potentially less robust buildings in the vicinity.

Initial reports indicate that at least two individuals have died as a result of the earthquake, with a significant number of buildings toppled. Emergency services were quickly mobilized to the affected areas to conduct search and rescue operations and to assess the full extent of the damage. The precise number of injured or trapped individuals is still being determined.

The collapse of numerous buildings raises concerns about the structural integrity of infrastructure in the region and the potential for further hazards. Authorities are expected to provide updates on the rescue efforts and the ongoing assessment of the situation as more information becomes available. The long-term impact on the affected communities is yet to be fully understood, but the immediate focus is on saving lives and providing aid.