Rescue operations continue in Nagqu as authorities deploy more than 1,600 personnel, with communications disrupted and snowfall forecast in the affected region
Beijing: A magnitude 7 earthquake struck China’s Tibet region late Thursday, killing at least 16 people and injuring 54, while hundreds of homes and livestock shelters collapsed in the northern city of Nagqu, according to official media reports.
The Nagqu media office said at least 339 homes and 20 livestock sheds had collapsed, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation. More than 1,600 personnel from the local county were deployed to assist affected communities.
Relief supplies, including 1,000 prefabricated housing units, around 3,000 tents, folding beds, flashlights and winter clothing, were sent to the region.
The US Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at 10.33 pm local time, with its epicentre 191 km east-northeast of Nagqu and a depth of 18 km. At least seven aftershocks, measuring between magnitude 4.3 and 5.2, were also recorded.
The earthquake disrupted communications in parts of the region and prompted railway authorities to halt trains as a precaution. Rockfalls forced the closure of a section of National Highway 317, with access restricted to emergency and rescue vehicles.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for all-out rescue efforts and prompt medical assistance. Intermittent snowfall expected over the next three days could complicate relief operations in the high-altitude region.
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