A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Gansu province in northwest China shortly before midnight on Monday, killing 111 people, injuring more than 390 and destroying or damaging about 5,000 homes, according to the provincial government's website.
The main quake, followed by 140 others, was felt in the province's administrative center, Lanzhou City, and other localities.
The quake originated at a depth of 10 kilometers, authorities said. As a result, water, electricity and transportation were disrupted in the disaster area.
Following the quake, the country's authorities have declared the second of four levels of earthquake emergency response, with the first being the highest.
More than 1,500 rescuers are involved in the search and rescue operation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent deep condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping over the tragic consequences of the earthquake.
The telegram, published on the Kremlin's website, also noted that "Russia shares the grief of those who lost their relatives and friends in this disaster and wishes a speedy recovery to all those affected."