Tibet earthquake: 6.8 magnitude tremor leaves hundreds dead and injured

On January 7, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale shook Tibet, China, causing widespread devastation.

The disaster claimed the lives of at least 126 people and left nearly 200 injured. The epicenter was located in Tingri County, near the border with Nepal, at a depth of 10 kilometers.

The earthquake struck at 9:05 AM local time, with tremors felt in nearby countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and India.

Heartbreaking images released by Chinese media showed homes reduced to rubble, vehicles buried beneath debris, and residents scrambling in panic as they faced the unexpected calamity.

Rescue operations were launched immediately by Chinese authorities, but severe weather conditions, including freezing nighttime temperatures dropping to -18°C, posed significant challenges.

President Xi Jinping ordered a full-scale response, urging intensified rescue efforts and immediate assistance for those affected.

The earthquake was followed by approximately 50 aftershocks, worsening the situation and leading to the temporary closure of the Everest tourist zone on the Chinese side.

This region, located in the seismically active Himalayan belt, experiences frequent earthquakes due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The disaster serves as a grim reminder of past seismic events in the area, such as the 2015 Nepal earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.8 and resulted in nearly 9,000 fatalities and over 22,000 injuries.

Efforts to rescue survivors are ongoing, with local authorities working to assess the damage and deliver aid to affected communities.

The primary focus remains on saving lives, providing shelter, and ensuring safety for those grappling with the aftermath of this catastrophic event.