At least 32 individuals have lost their lives, and 38 are injured following a powerful earthquake that struck the holy city of Shigatse in Tibet on Tuesday morning. The tremor, which occurred at around 09:00 local time (01:00 GMT), registered a magnitude of 7.1 and took place at a depth of 10 kilometers (six miles), as reported by the US Geological Survey. Aftershocks have since rattled the region, prompting fears of further incidents.
China Earthquake Claims Lives in Tibet: 32 Confirmed Dead
China Earthquake Claims Lives in Tibet: 32 Confirmed Dead
A catastrophic earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 has devastated the Tibetan region, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction.
The earthquake's effects were felt not only in Tibet but also in neighboring areas of Nepal and India. Shigatse, recognized as one of Tibet's sacred cities, serves as the traditional workplace of the Panchen Lama, a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism. Chinese state media reported the earthquake's magnitude at a slightly lower 6.8, highlighting the significant tremors that caused the destruction of over 1,000 homes.
Video footage circulating on social media depicts the aftermath of collapsing structures amidst strong aftershocks. Jiang Haikun, a researcher at the China Earthquake Networks Center, offered insight into the situation, indicating a possible risk of a subsequent earthquake around magnitude 5 but reassured that the chance of a larger tremor is minimal.
In response to the disaster, the Chinese air force has initiated search and rescue operations, using drones to access the remote mountainous terrain, which is currently facing subzero temperatures. The earthquake has left the region without power or water supply.
Though tremors were also experienced in Nepal, local officials reported no consequential damage or injuries. Tibet's earthquake bureau has been working to confirm casualty numbers, acknowledging the ongoing verification process.
This earthquake highlights the geological instability of the region, situated on a fault line where the Indian and Eurasian plates converge. It serves as a stark reminder of the seismic vulnerabilities that the area faces—a fact underscored by the devastating 2015 earthquake near Kathmandu, which resulted in nearly 9,000 deaths and over 20,000 injuries.
Video footage circulating on social media depicts the aftermath of collapsing structures amidst strong aftershocks. Jiang Haikun, a researcher at the China Earthquake Networks Center, offered insight into the situation, indicating a possible risk of a subsequent earthquake around magnitude 5 but reassured that the chance of a larger tremor is minimal.
In response to the disaster, the Chinese air force has initiated search and rescue operations, using drones to access the remote mountainous terrain, which is currently facing subzero temperatures. The earthquake has left the region without power or water supply.
Though tremors were also experienced in Nepal, local officials reported no consequential damage or injuries. Tibet's earthquake bureau has been working to confirm casualty numbers, acknowledging the ongoing verification process.
This earthquake highlights the geological instability of the region, situated on a fault line where the Indian and Eurasian plates converge. It serves as a stark reminder of the seismic vulnerabilities that the area faces—a fact underscored by the devastating 2015 earthquake near Kathmandu, which resulted in nearly 9,000 deaths and over 20,000 injuries.
