At 9:05 a.m. on Tuesday, a powerful magnitude-6.8 earthquake struck Dingri County in Xigaze City, located in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. The quake has led to significant casualties and widespread concern among residents and authorities alike.
According to preliminary assessments reported by Xigaze City authorities at a press conference this afternoon, the earthquake has claimed at least 95 lives and injured 130 people as of 3 p.m. The sudden tremor sent shockwaves through the mountainous region, causing buildings to sway and residents to flee into the streets for safety.
Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the affected areas to conduct search and rescue operations. Hospitals are on high alert, treating the injured and providing medical assistance. Local authorities are coordinating relief efforts, including setting up temporary shelters and distributing essential supplies to those displaced by the disaster.
“We are doing everything we can to assist those affected by this tragedy,” a Xigaze City official stated during the press conference. “Our priority is to save lives and ensure the safety of our residents.”
The earthquake has disrupted communication and transportation networks in the region, complicating rescue efforts. Teams are working diligently to restore services and reach remote communities that may be in need of urgent assistance.
Residents described the earthquake as a terrifying experience. “The whole building shook violently,” one Dingri County resident recounted. “We ran outside immediately, and everyone was in a state of panic.”
The humanitarian impact of the quake is still unfolding, and the casualty figures may rise as more information becomes available. The local government urges people to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions from official channels.
Xizang Autonomous Region is known for its seismic activity due to its location along major tectonic plate boundaries. Authorities are monitoring aftershocks and assessing the structural integrity of buildings to prevent further incidents.
International organizations and neighboring regions have expressed their condolences and are offering support to aid in the relief efforts.
As the situation develops, more updates will be provided to keep the public informed.
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M6.8 quake in China's Xizang claims at least 95 lives and injures 130
cgtn.com
