Causes Analysis of Earthquake-Related Deaths in Mainland China 2001–2022

This study investigates earthquake-related deaths in mainland China from 2001 to 2022, focusing on their causes, patterns, and influencing factors. The causes of death are categorized into five groups: building damage; geological hazards; disease-related fatalities; improper actions or accidents; and other causes. By analyzing the 65 selected fatal earthquakes during this period, the research reveals that building collapses account for the majority of deaths, with vulnerable structures such as earthen and brick–concrete buildings being most at risk. Geological hazards, such as landslides and rockfalls, also contribute significantly to fatalities, particularly in mountainous regions. Demographic analysis indicates that children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. By providing a comprehensive data set and insights into the mechanisms of earthquake fatalities, this research aims to enhance predictive models and inform disaster mitigation policies, thereby contributing to improved emergency response and resilience strategies.