Tibet Autonomous Region (China), January 7, 2025– An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 shook the Tibet Autonomous Region, causing a major disaster with a heavy human toll and considerable damage. According to local authorities, at least 95 people lost their lives and 130 others were injured in this tragedy.
The epicenter of the earthquake: Dingri county
The earthquake had its epicenter in Dingri County, located near the border with Nepal. This mountainous region, populated by around 62,000 inhabitants, was hit hard by the collapse of many residential structures. Residents, caught off guard by the violence of the tremors, now find themselves faced with the loss of their property and loved ones.
Regional impacts
The tremors were felt as far away as Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, and in parts of India. Despite the magnitude of the earthquake, these neighboring countries reported no casualties. However, the psychological impact and slight structural damage have caused concern among local populations.
Complicated climatic conditions
Rescue operations are particularly difficult due to extreme weather conditions. Temperatures, already low at this time of year, fluctuate between -8°C during the day and drop to -18°C at night. These harsh conditions complicate access to disaster areas and endanger rescue teams as well as survivors, who are now faced with intense cold without adequate shelter.
A historic disaster
This earthquake is the most powerful recorded within a radius of 200 kilometers in five years. It is among the deadliest disasters in China since 2014, when an earthquake in Yunnan province caused more than 600 deaths. The repetition of these tragic events highlights the need to strengthen seismic prevention and safety measures in these high-risk regions.
Reactions and international aid
Although in neighboring countries, notably Nepal and India, there were no human losses, the international community quickly offered support. They also made proposals for humanitarian aid to assist China in its relief and reconstruction efforts. On site, rescue teams are working to find survivors under the rubble and provide first aid to the injured.
In response to this tragedy, the Chinese authorities promised to mobilize all necessary means to help the victims and rebuild the destroyed infrastructure. For the residents of Dingri County, the road to reconstruction will be long, but national and international solidarity could provide crucial support in these difficult times.
