Lhasa – At least 16 people have died and 65 others have been injured after a powerful magnitude 7 earthquake struck the Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China.
The earthquake hit Baqen County in Nagqu City at 10:33 pm local time on Thursday, October 22. The China Earthquake Networks Center measured the earthquake at a depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre in Maru Township, around 70 kilometres from the county headquarters.
The death toll remained at 16 on Friday, while the number of injured had increased to 65. More than 12,000 residents have been relocated to safer areas as rescue and relief operations continue.
Authorities said at least 339 households suffered collapsed or damaged homes, while 20 livestock shelters were also damaged. Communication services were interrupted in some areas, and railway operations were temporarily suspended for safety inspections.
Rockfalls blocked part of National Highway 317, limiting access to emergency, rescue and official support vehicles. More than 1,600 responders, including firefighters and police personnel, have been mobilised, while temporary shelters, tents, beds, winter clothing and other emergency supplies have reached affected communities.
The China Earthquake Networks Center recorded more than 400 aftershocks following the main earthquake. The epicentral area is sparsely populated, lies at an average elevation of around 4,800 metres and could experience intermittent snowfall, potentially making rescue work more difficult.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for comprehensive search, rescue and medical efforts, along with measures to protect residents from the cold and restore essential services.
The earthquake was the strongest recorded in China since January 2024.
