Powerful Earthquake Strikes China Leaving 16 Dead And Hundreds Of Homes Destroyed

A desperate search for survivors is underway in China's Tibet region after a powerful earthquake struck late Thursday night, October 22, leaving at least 16 people dead, dozens injured and hundreds of families facing the destruction of their homes.

The magnitude 7 earthquake struck at approximately 10:33 p.m. China time, sending residents fleeing into the streets as buildings shook and structures collapsed in the mountainous region.

The earthquake caused extensive damage in the northern Tibetan city of Nagqu, where at least 339 homes were reported to have collapsed or sustained damage, along with 20 livestock shelters.

The number of injured has risen to 65, while the death toll remains at 16, according to a Friday update from local authorities. 

Emergency response teams have been deployed across the affected communities, searching damaged buildings, assisting injured residents and helping families move to safer locations.

More than 1,600 personnel have been mobilised to support rescue operations, while emergency supplies, including approximately 3,000 tents, folding beds, winter clothing and temporary housing units, have been delivered to the disaster zone.

Chinese authorities have also relocated more than 12,000 people as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

The earthquake has disrupted transportation and communications in parts of the region. Falling rocks forced authorities to restrict access along a section of National Highway 317, while railway services were temporarily halted as officials assessed possible damage to infrastructure.

The United States Geological Survey placed the earthquake's epicentre approximately 191 kilometres east-northeast of Nagqu, at a depth of 18 kilometres. Chinese seismic authorities recorded a shallower depth of 10 kilometres.

The affected area is known for its rugged terrain, high altitude and harsh weather conditions, presenting additional challenges for emergency workers attempting to reach isolated communities.

Weather forecasts have also warned of intermittent snowfall over the coming days, raising concerns about conditions facing displaced residents and rescue personnel.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an all-out effort to rescue survivors, provide medical assistance and support communities affected by the disaster.

Meanwhile, hundreds of aftershocks have been recorded following the initial earthquake, adding to fears among residents already reluctant to return to damaged buildings.

The earthquake is among the strongest to strike China in recent years and the country's most powerful since January 2024.

Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the destruction as emergency teams work to locate survivors, restore essential services and provide shelter to those who have lost their homes.