Powerful Earthquake Strikes Tibet, 53 Dead and 62 Injured

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 in magnitude struck Tibet early Tuesday morning, causing widespread devastation and resulting in at least 53 deaths and 62 injuries. The earthquake occurred near Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, which is considered one of the region’s holiest sites. The tremors were felt as far away as Nepal.
According to reports from the Chinese Earthquake Networks Center, the earthquake hit at 9:05 AM local time. It had a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and a magnitude of 6.8, although the U.S. Geological Survey recorded a stronger magnitude of 7.1. The region is known for its seismic activity due to its location along major fault lines.
The initial shock was followed by several aftershocks, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 4.4. Local media reports indicated that several buildings collapsed, and dozens of casualties have been confirmed. The most affected areas are remote mountain villages, which are difficult to access, especially during the harsh winter conditions.
Xinhua, China’s state news agency, reported that at least nine fatalities occurred in the three surrounding areas near Shigatse. Rescue operations are underway, but the remote location and severe weather conditions are hampering efforts.
Shigatse is also known for being the spiritual seat of the Panchen Lama, the second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama. This earthquake has drawn international attention, with tremors also reported in neighboring Nepal and parts of India. The region is no stranger to seismic activity, as it lies along an active fault zone.
Rescue teams continue to search for survivors, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.