7.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes China’s Tibet Region Near Nepal Border

A devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the region of Tibet in western China near the border with Nepal on Tuesday, resulting in dozens of casualties, as reported by the United States Geological Survey.

The earthquake hit Dingri County in Tibet at a depth of 6.2 miles shortly after 9 a.m., causing at least 32 fatalities, according to Chinese state media. More than 1,000 houses collapsed in the county, as per reports from China’s state broadcaster.

The aftermath of the quake was felt in Nepal as well, with several aftershocks being reported in the area.

Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet with a population of 640,000, was the nearest city to the earthquake’s epicenter. The Himalayan region is known for its susceptibility to powerful earthquakes, with the 2015 Nepal quake being a tragic example.

Residents in high mountain regions of Nepal were advised to migrate to lower lands to avoid the harsh winter conditions. The risk of avalanches and floods from glacial lakes remains a concern after earthquakes.

Berry Wang contributed research.