Strong Earthquake in Tibet Claims Over 120 Lives and Causes Widespread Damage

CNChina|

A powerful earthquake struck the Tibet region of China on Tuesday, leading to the reported deaths of at least 126 people and injuring over 130 others. The quake, which had a magnitude of 7.1, caused significant destruction in several villages, as hundreds of homes were flattened, leaving many residents trapped beneath the rubble.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located in Tingri County, near one of Tibet's holiest cities and approximately 80 kilometers north of Mount Everest. Emergency rescue operations are currently underway, with over 3,000 rescuers deployed to search for survivors. Graphic footage showed rescue teams navigating through debris and carrying injured individuals on stretchers.

In terms of immediate impact, more than 1,000 homes sustained damages in the sparsely populated region, where initial reports indicated streets were littered with rubble and crushed vehicles from collapsed structures. Aftershocks were felt throughout the area following the main quake, further complicating rescue efforts.

While northeastern Nepal also felt the tremors, reports indicated that there were no injuries or significant damage recorded in that region. Residents in the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, experienced a stark awakening as shook from the quake prompted many to flee their homes in alarm.

Chinese authorities have announced a relief fund of 100 million yuan to assist those affected, and various government officials have been dispatched to oversee recovery efforts.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from China

China Claims Hypersonic Missiles Can Strike Anywhere in 30 Minutes

Chinese scientists have reportedly developed hypersonic missiles capable of reaching any location on Earth within 30 minutes, according to a study published in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. These advanced missiles, equipped with a re-entry glide vehicle, can travel at speeds of up to Mach 20, or approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour. This technological leap is expected to have significant implications for global defense dynamics, as hypersonic weapons are designed to evade traditional detection systems. The design of these weapons allows for rapid and unpredictable directional changes, which poses challenges for existing air defense methods. Major powers, including the United States and the United Kingdom, are investing heavily in hypersonic technology, with various developmental programs and tests underway. India is also advancing its capabilities, having tested its own hypersonic missile systems, such as the BrahMos-2, which aims to maintain strategic parity with China. As countries worldwide race to develop hypersonic missiles, the potential shift in military power balances remains a pressing concern for global security analysts.
CNChina

China Claims Development of Hypersonic Missiles Capable of Global Strikes in 30 Minutes

Chinese scientists have reportedly developed hypersonic missiles that can strike any location on Earth within 30 minutes, based on a recent publication in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. These missiles are equipped with a re-entry glide vehicle (RGV) capable of traveling at speeds up to Mach 20, or approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour, allowing for rapid changes in direction that complicate detection by traditional defense systems. The advancement follows India's successful Operation Sindoor, where the BrahMos missile penetrated Pakistani defense systems, highlighting the evolving dynamics in global defense technology. Major powers, including the United States and Britain, are also advancing in hypersonic technology, with an expected readiness date for their joint project in 2030. India is progressing in this domain as well, having tested its own hypersonic missile technology and actively developing the BrahMos-2 missile. Experts assert that despite having advanced air defense systems, India must bolster its capabilities to address the challenges posed by these emerging hypersonic threats.
CNChina

Sudden Storm Capsizes Tourist Boats in China, Leaving 10 Dead

A sudden storm caused four tourist boats to capsize in Guizhou province, China, on May 5, resulting in the tragic deaths of ten people, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Over 80 individuals were thrown into the Wu River as strong winds and hail struck the scenic area during a busy national holiday. Initial reports mentioned only two boats capsizing, but officials later confirmed that four were involved, with two containing no passengers. The seven crew members on these boats managed to save themselves. Approximately 70 people were treated for injuries, most of which were minor. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered extensive rescue efforts and emphasized the need for improved safety precautions at tourist sites following a series of accidents. Eyewitnesses noted that while some managed to swim to safety, the storm appeared abruptly, shrouding the river in mist. The boats involved had a capacity of around 40 passengers each and were reportedly not overloaded at the time of the incident.
CNChina