At least 16 people have been killed and dozens injured after a powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck China's Tibet region late Thursday, October 22, collapsing hundreds of homes and triggering emergency rescue operations in the affected areas, according to official reports.
At least 339 homes were reported to have collapsed in and around Nagqu city.
Authorities have deployed rescue personnel to locate survivors, provide medical assistance and assess the extent of the destruction. The casualty figures may change as search and rescue operations continue.
Earthquake Strikes Northern Tibet
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck at approximately 10:33 pm local time, with its epicentre about 191 kilometres east-northeast of Nagqu.
The USGS recorded the earthquake at a depth of around 18 kilometres, while China's earthquake monitoring agency reported a shallower depth of approximately 10 kilometres.
The tremor struck a sparsely populated, high-altitude region of northern Tibet, where difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions could complicate relief operations.
Dozens Injured, Infrastructure Damaged
Initial reports indicated that at least 32 people had been injured, including 11 who were in serious condition. Authorities also reported damage to livestock shelters and other structures in the affected region.
The earthquake disrupted communications in some areas and prompted railway authorities to suspend train services as a precaution. Rockfalls also forced the temporary closure of a section of National Highway 317, restricting access to emergency and rescue vehicles.
Rescue and Relief Efforts Underway
Emergency teams have been mobilised to assist affected residents, while authorities are arranging temporary shelters and essential supplies for displaced families. Tents, folding beds, winter clothing and prefabricated housing units have been sent to the region.
China's leadership has called for comprehensive rescue operations and medical assistance for the injured. With further tremors possible and adverse weather forecast, authorities remain focused on locating survivors, restoring essential services and providing relief to affected communities.