The death toll climbs to over 120 following a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck a remote region of Tibet near the border with Nepal. The earthquake, which occurred just after 9 a.m. local time, caused widespread destruction across southern China and was felt as far away as India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. The U.S. Geological Survey reports that the epicenter was located near Nyingchi, a sparsely populated but mountainous area prone to seismic activity.
Rescue operations are underway as emergency teams struggle to reach affected villages cut off by landslides and damaged infrastructure. Initial reports from local media indicate that hundreds are injured, and the number of fatalities is expected to rise as rescuers reach more remote areas. The Chinese government has deployed over 10,000 personnel, including military units, to assist in relief efforts.
In the nearby Mount Everest region, visitors at a base camp report significant shaking that forced them to evacuate tents and seek safer ground. Climbers have described avalanches triggered by the quake, although no injuries have been reported in that area. In Nepal, tremors were felt in the capital city of Kathmandu, reigniting fears of earthquakes in a region still recovering from the devastating 2015 quake.
The earthquake has also caused severe damage to infrastructure, with reports of collapsed buildings, disrupted communication networks, and power outages across affected areas. In Nyingchi, local hospitals are overwhelmed with injured residents, prompting an urgent call for medical supplies and additional healthcare workers. Temporary shelters have been established, but harsh weather conditions are complicating relief efforts.
International aid organizations are mobilizing to provide support, and offers of assistance have been extended by neighboring countries, including Nepal and India. The Chinese Red Cross has issued an appeal for donations, focusing on food, blankets, and emergency medical kits for displaced families. In response, the Chinese government has declared a state of emergency in the region.
Geologists warn of potential aftershocks, urging residents to remain vigilant as rescue and recovery efforts continue. The earthquake highlights the vulnerability of this seismically active region and raises questions about preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
