Major Earthquake Hits Tibet: Casualties and Widespread Shaking Felt

A powerful earthquake struck Tibet on January 7, 2025, causing death, injury, and widespread damage. The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and hit early in the morning, near the Tibet-Nepal border.

Details of the Earthquake:

– Magnitude: 7.1

– Time: 6:35 AM local time

– Location: Xizang (Tibet), about 93 kilometers from Lobuche, Nepal

– Depth: 10 kilometers beneath the surface

Casualties and Damage:

– Deaths: State media reports indicate that the death toll from the powerful earthquake that hit China’s remote Tibet region on Tuesday morning has risen to at least 53.

– Injuries: 70+ people were injured in the region.

– Building Damage: Many buildings collapsed, especially in Dingri County, trapping people and causing injuries.

Shaking Felt Far and Wide:

– In India: People in Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam felt strong tremors. In cities like Patna, New Delhi, and Guwahati, people rushed out of their homes in fear.

– In Nepal: Kathmandu experienced powerful shaking, prompting people to evacuate for safety.

– Other Regions: Tremors were felt in Bhutan, Bangladesh, and even parts of China, far from the epicenter.

Aftershocks followed the main quake, with magnitudes of 4.7 and 4.9, further shaking the region.

Rescue and Assistance:

Rescue teams, including those from the Chinese air force, have been dispatched to help. Drones are being used to assess the damage, particularly in the snowy, mountainous areas near Mount Everest. Local authorities are working to evaluate the destruction and assist those in need.

Impact on Tibet and Nepal:

In Tibet’s Dingri County, the temperature is around minus 8°C (17.6°F), and it is expected to drop further to minus 18°C. The region, home to around 62,000 people, is located near Mount Everest on the Chinese side.

This earthquake was the strongest recorded in the area in the past five years, with buildings collapsing near the epicenter. The region is known for frequent earthquakes due to its location along a major faultline.

Responses from Neighboring Regions:

In Nepal, areas near Mount Everest, including Namche, felt the tremors. Fortunately, no deaths or major damage have been reported in Nepal, though local authorities have been deployed for safety measures.

In India’s Bihar state, people felt the shaking, but there were no reports of injuries.

Challenges of the Region:

The region’s harsh weather conditions make rescue efforts more difficult. Temperatures are dangerously low, adding complexity to the already challenging situation.

This earthquake serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, and authorities continue to monitor the aftermath and provide support.