A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Dingri, southern Tibet, killing at least 126 and injuring 188. Rescue operations are hampered by extreme temperatures and aftershocks, with significant destruction reported in vulnerable villages. President Xi Jinping has called for urgent search and rescue efforts to aid those affected by the disaster.
On January 7, at approximately 9 am local time, a devastating earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck Dingri, a rural county in southern Tibet, China. Official reports from the Xinhua News Agency indicate that the quake resulted in the tragic loss of at least 126 lives and left 188 individuals injured. The quake’s epicenter was 20 kilometers away from residential areas, affecting around 6,900 residents. Emergency services, including thousands of rescue workers and military personnel, are currently conducting search and rescue operations amidst challenging weather conditions, with temperatures plummeting between -8ºC by day and -18ºC by night in the high-altitude Himalayan region. As survivors are sought, multiple aftershocks have been reported, compounding the difficulty of rescue efforts. Eyewitness reports and images reveal severe destruction, as houses have been reduced to rubble, and communities are left grief-stricken, mourning the loss of both human life and livestock. President Xi Jinping has urged for comprehensive efforts to be made in search and rescue missions, emphasizing the urgency to minimize the loss of life and support those affected by this tragedy.
The earthquake incident on January 7 underscores the geological volatility of the Himalayan region, particularly in southern Tibet, where earthquakes are a frequent occurrence due to tectonic activity. The magnitude of the quake had significant ramifications for the local population, with dense settlements facing the brunt of the disaster. The region’s remote nature and harsh climate complicate rescue and relief efforts, often limiting access and increasing the urgency for quickly addressing casualties and needs.
This earthquake in Dingri has resulted in catastrophic destruction, claiming numerous lives and injuries while leaving communities devastated. The ongoing rescue efforts face dire conditions, but the commitment to save those trapped remains unwavering. As the situation develops, a thorough response to support the survivors and to begin reconstruction will be crucial for the recovery of the affected region.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
