Chinese state media report that a powerful earthquake, which struck the Baqen area part of Nagchu City in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China last night (22), has resulted in 16 deaths and left 46 others injured.
The China Earthquake Networks Center has confirmed that the earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale, occurred at approximately 10:33 PM local time.
Among those injured, 11 are in serious condition, while 35 others sustained minor injuries. Following the earthquake, 339 houses in the area have either completely collapsed or sustained severe damage, and nearly 20 livestock farms have also been affected. Furthermore, local reports indicate that the power supply across the region has been completely disrupted due to the earthquake.
Assessing the situation, Chinese authorities have declared a state of emergency throughout the area and have accelerated search and rescue operations.
Placing special emphasis on the disaster, Chinese President Xi Jinping has instructed authorities to take immediate steps to properly resettle those affected and to ensure the utmost protection for their lives and property.