In the vicinity of the Tibetan city of Shigatse, a powerful earthquake has resulted in 36 fatalities, according to Reuters citing local Chinese media. The earthquake occurred overnight between Monday and Tuesday (local time) in the country’s southwest, near the Nepalese border, an area prone to seismic activity.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude of 7.1 at a depth of approximately ten kilometers, while China’s earthquake monitoring agency recorded a magnitude of 6.8. Reporters from AFP noted that the tremors were felt about 400 kilometers southwest of Shigatse, reaching as far as Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.
Many buildings near the epicenter in the Tingri region, where many Mount Everest expeditions originate, have collapsed, as reported by China’s state broadcaster CCTV. Evacuations are underway, with residents fleeing their homes, according to AP.
People were seen in the streets after being awakened by the tremors. Rescue operations are ongoing and evacuations are being conducted due to potential aftershocks.
Source: NOS