Small earthquake strikes Hanoi

A small earthquake, believed to be aftershocks of a 7.8 magnitude quake in China, hit Hanoi at 01.35pm on May 12, causing waves of panic among employees and visitors at high-rise buildings.

The 45-second aftershocks were reported to be the strongest in Hoan Kiem district, where many people from such buildings as Vincom City Towers felt dizzy and saw things like flower jars and bottles shaking.

During the earthquake, most staff in high-rise buildings rushed downstairs to streets, creating chaos.

Until 2.40pm, when the earthquake was already over, some still stayed outside the buildings due to fear.