Tibet- At least 16 people have been killed and 32 others injured after a powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck the Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China, local authorities have reported. The earthquake caused extensive damage to buildings, with more than 300 houses collapsing in the affected area.
According to the municipal emergency management bureau, the earthquake struck Baqen County in Nagqu City at 10:33 p.m. on Thursday. The strong tremor caused significant damage to residential structures and left dozens of people injured.
Of the 32 injured people, 11 sustained serious injuries, while the remaining 21 suffered minor injuries, authorities said. The figures were based on information available as of 2:25 a.m. on Friday. Officials warned that the extent of the damage was still being assessed, and the number of casualties and the overall impact of the disaster could become clearer as rescue teams continue their operations.
More than 300 houses had collapsed by the time of the latest report, raising concerns about the safety and living conditions of residents in the earthquake-hit communities. Authorities are continuing to collect detailed information about the destruction caused by the earthquake.
Rescue and relief operations are underway in the affected areas, with emergency personnel working to assist injured residents, search for people who may be trapped, and assess damaged buildings. Officials have mobilised more than 300 police officers to support rescue and relief efforts.
In addition, the regional fire and rescue team has deployed 347 personnel to the affected areas. The teams are working to respond to emergencies and provide assistance to residents affected by the disaster.
Authorities have said that a comprehensive assessment of the earthquake’s impact is ongoing. Emergency services are prioritising rescue operations and relief assistance as they work to determine the full extent of the damage.
The earthquake has prompted an urgent response from local emergency agencies, with officials continuing to coordinate personnel and resources to support affected communities.
The Xinhua News Agency reported that rescue and relief operations had been intensified following the earthquake. Further details about the casualties, property damage and recovery efforts are expected as authorities continue to assess the situation.
