A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck China’s Tibet region late Thursday, resulting in at least 16 fatalities and 65 injuries, with rescue operations still underway.
The number of injured has increased from earlier reports by China’s state news agency Xinhua, which initially noted 46 injuries.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the northern Nagqu area and occurred around 10:33 p.m. local time on October 22.
Extensive Damage to Homes
The earthquake has caused considerable damage to homes and buildings.
Xinhua reported that an initial assessment revealed 339 households experienced collapsed or damaged structures, along with 20 livestock sheds.
The tremor affected the sparsely populated area, prompting residents to flee to streets or their cars for safety, as shown in local media footage.
Emergency workers are still evaluating the full extent of the damage to buildings and nearby settlements.
Rescue Teams Deployed, Residents Relocated
Local authorities have dispatched over 300 police officers to aid in rescue and emergency operations, inspect damaged homes, and assist in relocating residents.
China’s state media indicates that more than 12,000 individuals have been moved to safety as rescue teams continue their efforts and medical personnel tend to the injured.
High altitude and the region’s remoteness are complicating emergency operations.
Authorities are working to identify affected households, assess building damage, and provide support to those who have lost their homes.
Aftershocks and Transportation Disruptions
The China Earthquake Networks Center has reported 413 aftershocks following the main quake.
The earthquake has also disrupted transportation in various areas, with rockfalls along National Highway 317 creating roadblocks, while rail services were temporarily halted for inspections.
Authorities are evaluating the conditions of roads, railway lines, and buildings before resuming services, with potential for further disruptions in the coming days.
One of China’s Strongest Earthquakes in Recent Years
The magnitude 7.0 earthquake is the strongest to hit China since January 2024, according to Reuters.
This incident underscores the earthquake risks in the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding Himalayan regions, where seismic activity, rocky terrain, and remote settlements pose challenges for rescue efforts.
Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and provide emergency support. The casualty count and property damage may change as more information becomes available.
Immediate priorities include caring for the injured, identifying those needing assistance, ensuring building safety, and providing temporary shelter for displaced residents.
[Source: Reuters]