A strong earthquake struck western China and Tibet on Tuesday, causing significant casualties and widespread damage.
The US Geological Survey recorded a 7.1 magnitude quake, while the China Earthquake Networks Center recorded the quake at 6.8 magnitude. The epicenter was in Dingri County, Shigatse, a high-altitude region near Mount Everest, with a depth of 10km, a region hosting a population of approximately 62,000.
Very strong 7.0 #quake hits near Shigatse, Tibet, China – info, user reports and updates | Jan 7, 2025 09:05 am (Shanghai time): https://t.co/WRKs73D34j
— Earthquake Monitor (@EQAlerts) January 7, 2025
The earthquake killed at least 126 people in Tibet and 96 in western China, with over 188 others injured. Tremors were felt as far as Nepal, Bhutan, and northern India. Over 1,000 houses sustained damage, and many buildings near the epicenter collapsed.
Rescue operations face challenges due to extreme cold, with temperatures dropping to minus 18°C. The region’s remoteness further complicates efforts. Teams are actively assisting affected areas.
This earthquake is one of the deadliest in the region in recent years.