Shocking videos circulating online capture the moment a powerful earthquake struck Tibet in the early morning hours (Cyprus time).
The earthquake occurred at approximately 09:05 local time (03:05 Cyprus time), according to China’s public seismological agency, the CENC, which estimated its magnitude at 6.8. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude of 7.1, with tremors felt as far as Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, approximately 400 kilometres away.
Death toll rises to 95 in Tibet earthquake
The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck southwestern China, in the Tibetan region of the Himalayas, has risen to 95. The tremor was felt in neighbouring countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and India.
The earthquake was recorded at 09:05 local time (03:05 Cyprus time), with the CENC reporting a magnitude of 6.8 and the USGS estimating it at 7.1. According to Chinese state television, six hours after the quake, the number of injured on the Tibetan side had reached 130, with 95 fatalities confirmed in the same region. No casualties have been reported in other areas.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all possible measures to be taken to ensure the success of rescue operations, prioritising the saving of lives, treatment of the injured, and support for those affected.
Extreme cold in the region
Temperatures in the area are approximately -8°C during the day and can drop to -18°C at night, according to China’s meteorological service.
A 7.1 magnitude earthquake has rocked Nepal near Lobuche.
— Kedar (@shintre_kedar) January 7, 2025
Exclusive Earthquake video from Nepal 🇳🇵
📌 Location: 93 km NE of Lobuche
📏 Depth: 10 km
⚠️ Reports of damage are still coming Prayers for everyone affected 🙏 #Earthquake #BreakingNews #Nepal #EarthquakePH. #lockdown pic.twitter.com/HCzpsfksJC
Also read: Powerful earthquake of 6.8 magnitude in Tibet – At least 53 dead