Tokyo: The powerful earthquake that occurred in China’s Tibet region on Thursday caused huge devastation. At least 16 people died and 32 others were injured in the 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Hundreds of houses have been damaged due to the earthquake. Relief and rescue operations are underway in the affected areas. Police, fire department and emergency teams are busy searching for people trapped under the debris and taking the displaced families to safe places.
How much devastation was caused by the earthquake in Tibet?
According to local officials, at least 339 houses collapsed due to the earthquake. Of the 32 people injured in the accident, the condition of 11 was said to be serious, while 21 people suffered minor injuries. As soon as the tremors of the earthquake were felt, people got scared and came out of their homes. Many people took shelter in open spaces and cars parked on the road.
Relief workers are working in the affected areas to evacuate people and provide temporary shelter. Tents are being set up for needy families so they can get immediate shelter.
Where was the epicenter of the earthquake and at what depth?
According to the China Earthquake Network Center (CENC), the earthquake’s magnitude was recorded at 7.0. Its center was said to be in the Nagku region of northern Tibet. The epicenter of the earthquake was about 10 kilometers below the ground. This area is situated at an average altitude of about 4,864 meters above sea level.
The epicenter of the earthquake was about 400 kilometres away from Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Despite this, strong tremors were felt in the surrounding areas, causing panic among the people.
Were tremors felt even after the earthquake?
After the powerful earthquake, several minor tremors of magnitude 3 to 4 were also recorded in the surrounding areas. Due to continuous tremors, there was an atmosphere of fear among the local people. Many people stayed in open spaces instead of returning to their homes.
According to state media, two people were injured in a village near the epicenter. There are reports of cracks in the walls of many houses in nearby villages also. Teams of officials are assessing the damage in the affected buildings and surrounding areas.
Who is engaged in relief and rescue operations?
Police, fire department and emergency rescue teams became active after the earthquake. Teams are busy evacuating people in the affected areas, providing aid to the injured and arranging temporary shelter for homeless families.
In the video released by local government media, people were seen coming out of their homes. Some people took shelter in their cars parked on the road. The priority of the rescue team is to provide help to the affected people and search for people trapped in damaged houses.
Why is this earthquake considered important in China?
According to the report, this is said to be the most powerful earthquake to hit China since January 2024. This incident has once again highlighted the challenges of disaster management in high altitude and earthquake prone areas. Relief work is going on in the affected areas and the full picture of the damage is awaited.
