A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck near Tibet’s Dingri County on Tuesday, resulting in at least 95 fatalities and injuring 130 others, as reported by Chinese state media. The quake, which the U.S. Geological Survey recorded at a depth of nearly six miles, occurred around 9 a.m. local time and was located in a mountainous region of western China close to the Nepalese border. Shigatse, the seat of the Panchen Lama, lies about 240 miles from Lhasa. The quake caused roofs and walls to collapse, particularly affecting the poorly constructed homes in the area, leading to high casualties. Local resident Sangji Dangzhi highlighted the fragility of the housing materials used. Videos showcased significant destruction, including damaged billboards and uprooted trees. In response, Chinese authorities dispatched more than 3,400 emergency personnel and mobilized disaster relief supplies, including food, clothing, and shelter. Tremors were also felt in Kathmandu, Nepal, but no damage was reported there. The Himalayan region is prone to earthquakes due to tectonic plate activity, with past incidents resulting in considerable devastation.
