On January 7, 2025, a devastating earthquake hit Tibet’s holy city of Shigatse. At least 95 people died, and 130 were hurt in the earthquake, which registered 7.1 in magnitude.
Details of the Earthquake
The earthquake struck at 9:05 a.m. local time, with its epicenter near Shigatse, Tibet’s second-most populous city. It also shook neighboring countries, including Bhutan, India, and Nepal. The United States Geological Survey measured the quake at 7.1 magnitude.
Impact on Shigatse
Shigatse, which is important in Tibetan Buddhism, was also heavily damaged. It collapsed many buildings, trapping residents under the rubble. Rescue teams scour the rubble for any signs of life.
Regional Effects
The earthquake’s resonance stretched far beyond Tibet. Tremors were felt in neighbouring Nepal, where residents in Kathmandu fled their homes in terror. However, none of Nepal, India, or Bangladesh reported any immediate damage or injuries.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Chinese leader Xi Jinping and American President Joe Biden have publicly appealed to prioritize rescue efforts and rebuilding infrastructure. More than 1,500 rescuers and 22,000 emergency supplies, including tents, coats, and quilts, have been deployed. The Chinese Air Force is employing drones to search the area around Mount Everest, where tremors of up to magnitude 4.5 were felt.
Geological Context
Tibet is vulnerable to earthquakes because of the tectonic activity of the two converging plates: the Eurasian Plate and the Indian Plate. The region is on alert for additional aftershocks, though experts say the chances of a more severe earthquake are small.
