Rescue operations in Tibet intensify amid freezing temperatures and aftershocks, while the death toll rises to 126 people.
Tremors and Chills: Tibet Struggles After Devastating Earthquake
Tremors and Chills: Tibet Struggles After Devastating Earthquake
Survivors face harsh winter conditions as rescue efforts expand following a deadly quake in Dingri County.
Rescue teams continue their urgent work in the aftermath of a powerful magnitude-7.1 earthquake that struck Tibet near the Nepal border on Tuesday, causing extensive destruction in villages near the northern slopes of Mount Everest. With freezing weather conditions plunging to minus 18 degrees Celsius (0 Fahrenheit), tens of thousands of displaced residents are finding safety in temporary shelters while dozens receive care for injuries sustained during the quake.
Reportedly, the earthquake has taken at least 126 lives and injured 188 individuals, marking it as the deadliest quake in China since a tragic tremor in December 2023. Following the initial quake, the region has experienced a staggering total of 660 aftershocks, some reaching magnitudes exceeding 3.0, complicating the rescue efforts and raising fears for the safety of survivors.
In addition to addressing urgent medical needs, teams are racing against time and frigid elements to provide adequate heating and shelter. Recent aerial photographs capture the grim reality of frozen landscapes surrounding the epicenter, further heightening concerns for those left vulnerable in the cold. The challenges of evaluating damage independently are significant due to Tibet's isolation and heavily policed environment, where foreign journalists face severe restrictions.
State media has highlighted the ongoing relief efforts, which include the distribution of blankets, tents, and insulated shelters to keep those affected warm. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has been actively visiting affected areas, instructing rescue teams to prioritize locating survivors while also ensuring the availability of food and warmth for those struggling with the harsh winter weather.
Although significant progress has been made with over 400 survivors rescued from the debris overnight and over 30,000 individuals relocated, the road to recovery remains long. Crews have been working tirelessly to clear blockages and restore electrical supply to surrounding towns, showcasing the resilience and determination of the affected communities.
Reportedly, the earthquake has taken at least 126 lives and injured 188 individuals, marking it as the deadliest quake in China since a tragic tremor in December 2023. Following the initial quake, the region has experienced a staggering total of 660 aftershocks, some reaching magnitudes exceeding 3.0, complicating the rescue efforts and raising fears for the safety of survivors.
In addition to addressing urgent medical needs, teams are racing against time and frigid elements to provide adequate heating and shelter. Recent aerial photographs capture the grim reality of frozen landscapes surrounding the epicenter, further heightening concerns for those left vulnerable in the cold. The challenges of evaluating damage independently are significant due to Tibet's isolation and heavily policed environment, where foreign journalists face severe restrictions.
State media has highlighted the ongoing relief efforts, which include the distribution of blankets, tents, and insulated shelters to keep those affected warm. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has been actively visiting affected areas, instructing rescue teams to prioritize locating survivors while also ensuring the availability of food and warmth for those struggling with the harsh winter weather.
Although significant progress has been made with over 400 survivors rescued from the debris overnight and over 30,000 individuals relocated, the road to recovery remains long. Crews have been working tirelessly to clear blockages and restore electrical supply to surrounding towns, showcasing the resilience and determination of the affected communities.
