7.0-magnitude earthquake kills 16 in Tibet, injures 54

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake has killed at least 16 people and injured 54 others in China’s southwestern Xizang Autonomous Region, commonly known as Tibet, triggering an extensive search-and-rescue operation and emergency relief efforts.

The earthquake struck Baqen County in Nagqu City on Thursday, according to China’s Xinhua News Agency. The tremor caused concern across the mountainous region, where many buildings are considered vulnerable to strong seismic activity.

Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered authorities to intensify search-and-rescue operations, locate anyone still missing and ensure that injured people receive prompt medical treatment.

In response to the disaster, China raised its national earthquake emergency response from Level IV to Level III on Friday, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management. A government work team was also dispatched to the affected area to coordinate and support rescue and relief operations.

China’s National Fire and Rescue Force deployed 350 rescuers and 83 vehicles to assist the affected communities. By 6:30am on Thursday, 120 rescuers and 27 vehicles had reached the area, while additional personnel and equipment remained on their way.

Authorities have also mobilised substantial emergency supplies to help residents whose homes may have been damaged or destroyed. The relief material includes 1,000 prefabricated housing units, 3,239 tents, 2,821 folding beds and 4,280 quilts, Xinhua reported.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres, approximately 183 kilometres from Nagqu.

The USGS issued a yellow alert for potential shaking-related fatalities and an orange alert for economic losses, indicating the possibility of significant damage and a need for a regional or national response. The agency also noted that people in the affected region generally live in structures that may be vulnerable to earthquake shaking.

The disaster prompted expressions of sympathy from Pakistan’s top leadership, reflecting the close ties between Islamabad and Beijing.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif separately expressed deep grief over the loss of lives, Radio Pakistan reported.

In their posts on X, both leaders extended condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the bereaved families and the people of China.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with China and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the disaster.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan stood alongside its Chinese brothers and sisters during the difficult period and was prepared to extend every possible assistance.

As rescue teams continue their work, authorities face the urgent task of assessing damage, treating the injured and providing shelter to affected residents. The full extent of the earthquake’s impact remains a key concern as emergency operations continue.