A powerful earthquake struck Tibet on Wednesday, collapsing thousands of homes in remote areas near the northern slopes of Mount Everest, as rescuers combed through the rubble in sub-zero conditions and strong winds. Tens of thousands of residents have been moved to safety and dozens are receiving treatment for injuries.
An earthquake struck Tingri County near one of the oldest cities in Tibet in western China on Tuesday morning, killing at least 126 people and injuring 188 others, state media reported. The earthquake was China’s worst since December 2023, when a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck the northwestern provinces of Gansu and Qinghai, killing 151 people.
Chinese state media said more than 600 aftershocks have since occurred in the area, some with magnitudes exceeding 4.0. Night temperatures dropped to -18 degrees Celsius or 0 degrees Celsius, forcing survivors and rescuers to brave the cold. Recent aerial images near the earthquake’s epicenter show ice on the lake, and temperatures are expected to remain low over the next three days, potentially narrowing the window for rescuing survivors.
The true extent of the damage is difficult to determine independently. Tibet is one of the most inaccessible and least developed regions in China. Security has been heightened for decades by tensions between Beijing and Tibetans, many of whom struggle to maintain their cultural identity and religious traditions in the predominantly Han country. Foreign journalists are prohibited from traveling independently in the region.
Much of the rescue effort focused on protecting against the cold. The state broadcaster showed video footage showing rescue workers setting up tents covered with insulation and rigging light panels powered by generators, while displaced residents huddled in blankets. crib and chair.
Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing visited hospitals and tent camps on Monday night. He instructed the rescue team to focus on finding remaining survivors, providing medical care to the frail, and ensuring that the displaced had enough food and warmth to survive the cold winter.
Rescue workers rescued more than 400 survivors from the rubble overnight. About 46,000 people were moved to safety.
Chinese state media reported that road obstructions had been cleared and power had been restored to most surrounding towns and villages. The state broadcaster showed footage of soldiers wearing gloves and shovels digging through the rubble.
Li You Contributed research results in Beijing.
