Devastating 7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Tibet, Leaving 16 Dead and Many Injured

A devastating earthquake measuring 7.0 struck Tibet, resulting in 16 fatalities and injuring 65 others. The disaster prompted an emergency response, with significant damage reported to homes and infrastructure. Relief efforts are underway, with supplies being dispatched to the affected areas. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for urgent search and rescue operations and medical assistance for the injured. The region is known for its seismic activity due to tectonic plate movements, raising concerns about future earthquakes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 23, 2026, 10:15 IST

Tragic Earthquake Strikes Tibet

Beijing/Lhasa: A severe earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale has struck Baqen County in Nagqu City, located in China's Tibet Autonomous Region, resulting in at least 16 fatalities and injuring 65 individuals, according to the local earthquake relief headquarters.

The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 10:33 PM on Thursday, prompted the regional disaster management committee to initiate a Level III emergency response for disaster relief efforts the following day.

Among the injured, eleven individuals are reported to be in critical condition, while others have sustained less severe injuries. The quake has led to the destruction or damage of over 330 homes.

Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage caused by the earthquake, with disaster relief operations already in progress, as reported by the state-run Xinhua news agency from Lhasa, the provincial capital.

As of early Friday morning, relief supplies have begun arriving in the affected areas, including 1,000 prefabricated housing units, over 3,200 tents, more than 2,800 folding beds, and essential items such as quilts, stoves, and clothing.

In response to the disaster, Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered comprehensive search and rescue operations for those missing and has emphasized the need for immediate medical assistance for the injured.

Xi's directives highlight the importance of minimizing casualties in the aftermath of this natural disaster.

The Tibetan Plateau is particularly susceptible to significant seismic activity due to its location at the convergence of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates, which frequently collide with considerable force.