A devastating magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck a remote region of Tibet on Monday morning, causing widespread destruction and prompting emergency responses. The quake, which occurred at 9:05 a.m. local time, centered near Tibet’s holy city of Shigatse, also impacted Nepal, Bhutan, and northern India, including the state of Bihar.
Casualties and Damage
As of the latest reports, at least 95 people have been confirmed dead, with 130 others injured. Videos circulating on Chinese social media and verified by CNN reveal extensive damage in Lhatse County, located 86 kilometers (53 miles) from the epicenter. Footage shows collapsed roofs, shattered shopfronts, and debris littering the streets, with parked vehicles sustaining visible damage.
Aftershocks and Regional Impact
The initial earthquake, whose epicenter was in the Tingri region approximately 240 miles from Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, was followed by 49 aftershocks, some registering magnitudes as high as 4.4. Tremors were felt across the Shigatse region, home to 800,000 people, and in parts of Bihar, India, including Patna, Saharsa, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, and Arrah.
Rescue Efforts and Emergency Supplies
China’s state-run news agency, Xinhua, reported that over 1,500 firefighters and rescue workers have been deployed to the affected areas. Emergency relief efforts include the dispatch of 22,000 items, such as cotton tents, coats, quilts, and folding beds. The Mt. Everest area, a significant part of the Shigatse region, has been temporarily closed to ensure safety and facilitate rescue operations.
Global Concern
The earthquake’s impact has drawn international attention, given the region’s cultural significance and its proximity to Nepal, which shares a history of devastating seismic events. Efforts to assess the full extent of the damage and support the affected populations continue, with authorities urging caution as aftershocks persist.
