According to Chinese state-run media, a 6.8 magnitude quake that struck Tuesday near Tibet’s holy town left at least 126 dead and more than 182 injured.
According to the China Earthquake Networks Center, an earthquake struck Dingri County in Shigatse City (Tibet) just after 9 am local time. The focal depth was 10 kilometers. State media reported that more than 3,600 homes had collapsed.
The U.S. Geological Survey estimated the magnitude of the earthquake at 7.1 and pinpointed the epicenter to Xizang – the local name for Tibet Autonomous Region.
In summary, the USGS stated that the region near the India-Eurasian plate boundary had a long history of large earthquakes. In the last century, 10 earthquakes with a magnitude of 6 or greater have occurred within 250 kilometers of the earthquake of January 7, 2025.
The Dalai Lama – the exiled spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism – said that he had been “saddened by” hearing about the earthquake.
He said that the incident had caused “tragic loss of lives, numerous injuries, and extensive damage to homes and properties.” “I extend my best wishes to those who were injured and I offer my prayers for the victims.”
Chinese media reported that multiple aftershocks had been recorded as of 10 am local time. The largest was 4.4.
According to Xinhua (a state-run media outlet), the death toll rose steadily over the following hours. The initial death toll was 53 with 60 injured. Hours later, it rose to 95 dead and 130 injured.