At least 16 people have been killed and 76 others injured following a powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 in magnitude that struck China’s Tibet region.
The earthquake hit Nagqu, a high-altitude area in northern Tibet, causing widespread damage to residential buildings and other structures.
According to local authorities, more than 300 homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving residents scrambling for safety as emergency teams mobilised to assist affected communities.
Chinese authorities have deployed rescue workers and police officers to the affected areas to search for survivors, assess the damage and provide emergency assistance.
Reports indicate that more than 12,000 residents have been relocated to safer areas as officials work to prevent further casualties.
Authorities have also warned that buildings weakened by the initial earthquake could collapse during aftershocks, raising concerns about the safety of residents returning to their homes.
The China Earthquake Networks Centre reportedly recorded more than 400 aftershocks following the main tremor.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for comprehensive rescue efforts, urgent medical treatment for the injured and measures to minimise further casualties.
Meanwhile, emergency teams continue to assess the full extent of the destruction as affected residents receive temporary shelter and other relief materials.
The earthquake is among the strongest to hit China since January 2024, with authorities continuing rescue and recovery operations in the affected region.
