PHOTO | 86 years since the earthquake that devastated Chișinău: Dozens killed, buildings collapsed
Eighty-six years ago, on November 10, 1940, one of the most powerful earthquakes of the 20th century struck Romania and the territory of the present-day Republic of Moldova. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake occurred on a Sunday morning at 3:39 AM in the Vrancea region, at a depth of approximately 150 kilometers, and lasted for about 45 seconds. The earthquake caused major destruction, including in Chișinău, where 78 people lost their lives and hundreds of buildings were severely damaged or destroyed.
Images preserved by the National Agency of Archives (ANA) in Chișinău show severely damaged or destroyed buildings, ruins, rescue operations, and the city's state immediately after the earthquake.
Among the affected structures were the Museum of Ethnography and Natural History—where approximately 40% of the exhibits were destroyed—as well as administrative buildings, schools, hospitals, the Agricultural Institute, theatres, and churches, including the towers of several places of worship.
Additionally, the tram depot, the power plant, and water supply pipelines sustained damage.
In the wake of the earthquake, hundreds of families were left homeless.
The earthquake was preceded by several tremors of lower intensity—including one with a magnitude of 6.5 on October 22, 1940—followed by numerous aftershocks.
Previously, the director of the Institute of Geology and Seismology, Igor Nicoară, stated to Radio Moldova that the 1940 earthquake resulted in the deaths of 78 people in Chișinău.
According to him, 500 buildings were completely destroyed, while another 1,500 required major repairs.
Igor Nicoară emphasized that the Vrancea zone is the primary source of seismic hazard for the Republic of Moldova, as the country is exposed to the risk of powerful earthquakes.
The expert noted that over 30% of the Chișinău municipality lies in an area where seismic intensity can reach eight degrees. In this context, he underscored the importance of public preparedness and knowledge of protective measures to reduce the loss of human life and material damage.
Images captured in Chișinău following the earthquake of November 10, 1940:
