A magnitude-4.9 earthquake shook Biru County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). The tremor occurred in Nagqu City, an area known for its high-altitude terrain and sparse population.
Local authorities reported no immediate casualties or significant structural damage as of press time. Emergency response teams have been dispatched to assess remote villages along the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. "Our priority is ensuring the safety of all residents and maintaining critical infrastructure," stated a Nagqu city disaster management official.
This seismic event follows increased geological activity in the Himalayan region this year, with Xizang recording seven earthquakes above magnitude 4 since June 2025. Seismologists emphasize that such tremors remain within expected patterns for the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
The incident comes three months after Xizang completed a $28 million upgrade to its earthquake early-warning system, part of China's national disaster prevention infrastructure improvements. Tourism officials confirm all major highways and rail connections to Lhasa remain operational, with no travel advisories issued for the region.
