A powerful earthquake struck the Nepal-Tibet border early Tuesday morning. The quake, measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, caused widespread panic as residents rushed out of their homes. The quake struck at 6:35 am in the Labuche area, approximately 93 km from the Nepal-Tibet border, with its epicenter located 10 km beneath the surface in Shizhang, Tibet.
Chinese authorities have reported at least nine deaths in the Tibet region; the death toll is likely to increase as rescuers continue the search.
Tremors had also sent shivers of fear and panic throughout Nepal, especially in various districts, including Nepal's capital city, Kathmandu. Panic videos of running people have emerged on social media.
Tremors Reach Multiple Regions
The impact of the earthquake was not limited to Nepal and Tibet. Northern India, especially Delhi-NCR, West Bengal, and Bihar, reported strong tremors. Bhutan, Bangladesh, and parts of China are also neighboring countries that felt the quake. The tremors were recorded at 6.8 in China.
History of Devastating Earthquakes in Nepal
Nepal has always been prone to severe earthquakes as it is a country close to the tectonic plate boundaries. In April 2015, a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake took nearly 9,000 lives and devastated the entire region. The reoccurrence of such disasters requires preparedness and quick response in the Himalayan region.
Rescue and Relief Operations Ongoing
Rescue teams are working to access remote areas in the affected areas. They are assessing the impact of the earthquake, and most of the rescue efforts are going on near the epicenter.
Key Highlights
- A 7.1-magnitude earthquake occurred on the Nepal-Tibet border on Tuesday morning.
- Till now, at least nine deaths have been reported in Tibet, and the death toll is expected to increase.
- Tremors were felt in Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and parts of China.
- Nepal has a history of devastating earthquakes, including the 2015 disaster that claimed 9,000 lives.
