A powerful earthquake that struck Tibet’s Shigatse city on Tuesday morning has resulted in at least 32 confirmed deaths and 38 injuries. The quake, which occurred around 09:00 local time (01:00 GMT), registered a magnitude of 7.1 with a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), according to the US Geological Survey.
However, Chinese state media reported a slightly lower magnitude of 6.8, noting strong tremors and significant damage in the region. The earthquake caused widespread devastation, including damage to over 1,000 homes, followed by powerful aftershocks.
Footage shared on social media shows buildings collapsing as the tremors shook the area. Jiang Haikun, a researcher at the China Earthquake Networks Center, told CCTV that after a major earthquake, the intensity of aftershocks typically diminishes. While Jiang suggested the possibility of another quake around magnitude 5, he reassured that a stronger earthquake was unlikely.
Shigatse, one of Tibet’s holiest cities and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, lies at the foot of Mount Everest. Rescue operations are underway, with the Chinese Air Force leading efforts and drones deployed to assess the damage. The region remains without power and water, and sub-zero temperatures are making relief efforts more challenging.
Tremors from the earthquake were also felt in neighboring Nepal and parts of India. In Nepal’s Namche region, near Everest, local officials reported no casualties or damage. However, Tibet’s earthquake bureau told the BBC that casualty numbers were still being verified.
Situated along the fault line where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, the region is known for its seismic activity. This earthquake serves as a reminder of the area’s vulnerability, reminiscent of the devastating 2015 earthquake near Kathmandu, Nepal, which claimed nearly 9,000 lives and left over 20,000 injured.
