A powerful magnitude-7.0 earthquake has struck Baqen County in Tibet’s Nagqu City, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more. Rescue teams are working in the remote, mountainous region as authorities assess the damage and assist affected communities.

A powerful magnitude-7.0 earthquake struck the Tibet region of southwestern China late on Thursday, October 22, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens of others, according to Chinese authorities.

The earthquake hit Maru Township in Baqen County, within Nagqu City, at approximately 10:33 p.m. local time. The shallow tremor struck a remote, high-altitude area, with the epicentre estimated to be about 10 kilometres below the surface, according to Chinese earthquake monitoring authorities.

Initial reports indicated that at least 339 homes and 20 livestock sheds collapsed or were damaged. Eleven injured people were reported to be in serious condition, while authorities continued assessing the extent of the destruction and updating casualty figures.

Emergency response teams have been mobilised to search affected communities, assist injured residents and provide relief to those whose homes have been damaged. The scale of the response reflects the challenges of reaching isolated settlements across the mountainous terrain.

The high elevation, difficult access and cold weather conditions could complicate rescue and recovery operations. Authorities are also monitoring aftershocks and inspecting infrastructure for further damage.

The earthquake is reported to be the strongest to strike China since January 2024. The immediate priority remains locating anyone who may still be trapped, treating the injured and providing shelter and essential supplies to displaced residents.