Devastating 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Tibet, Leaving 36 Dead and Many Injured

A powerful earthquake struck the Xizang Autonomous Region of Tibet early Tuesday, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, hit Dingri County in Xigaze City at 9:05 a.m. local time. According to reports from regional disaster relief authorities, the calamity has resulted in the tragic deaths of 36 individuals, with 38 others suffering injuries. The China Earthquake Networks Centre has confirmed that the quake's epicenter was located at 28.5°N latitude and 87.45°E longitude, at a shallow depth of only 10 kilometers. The impact was particularly severe in Tonglai Village, situated in Changsuo Township of Dingri, where numerous homes suffered significant structural damage and collapses. In the aftermath of the initial earthquake, the National Centre for Seismology reported a series of aftershocks that continued to shake the region. The largest of these aftershocks, recorded at 7.1 magnitude, occurred at 6:35 a.m. Indian Standard Time, also at a depth of 10 kilometers. Over the course of the day, there were seven aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from 4.3 to 5.0. The seismic activity has raised concerns among residents regarding the stability of their homes and community infrastructure. The earthquake's tremors were felt beyond Tibet, reaching as far as Kathmandu in Nepal, prompting residents to evacuate their homes for safety. Many recounted their experiences of fear and confusion as they tried to escape to open spaces. Meera Adhikari, a local resident, described the moment the quake struck: "I thought my child was moving the bed. I didn’t pay that much attention but the shaking of the window prompted me to think that it’s an earthquake." Similarly, another resident, Biplov Adhikari, recalled feeling the quake while inside his home and hurriedly making his way outside as the tremors intensified. Authorities in nearby areas, including Bihar's Sheohar district in India, have also reported feeling the tremors, underscoring the vast reach of this seismic event. As rescue and relief efforts are mobilized, the full extent of the damage remains unclear. Emergency services are likely to face challenges accessing remote areas affected by the earthquakes, and officials are urging residents to remain vigilant for potential further aftershocks. This is a developing story, and updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available.