A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck China’s Tibet region late Thursday, October 22, killing at least 18 people and injuring dozens, according to reports citing Chinese authorities. Rescue operations are underway as officials assess the extent of the damage.
The earthquake struck at around 10:33 pm local time in a remote, high-altitude area of Nagqu in northern Tibet. The epicentre was located approximately 10 kilometres beneath the surface, according to China’s earthquake monitoring authorities.
Initial reports said at least 32 people had been injured. However, Reuters reported on Friday that the number of injured had risen to 65, while the death toll remained at 18. The figures may change as rescue teams gather further information from affected communities.
The powerful tremor caused significant damage to buildings, with at least 339 homes reported collapsed or damaged in early assessments. Residents rushed out of their homes and sought shelter in open areas or inside vehicles as the ground shook.
Local authorities deployed hundreds of police officers and emergency personnel to assist with rescue efforts, inspect damaged buildings and help residents move to safer locations. More than 12,000 people had reportedly been relocated to safety, according to Chinese state media.
The remote location and extreme elevation of the affected area present additional challenges for rescue teams. Officials are continuing to assess the damage and provide assistance to those affected.
The earthquake is considered the strongest to hit China since January 2024. Several smaller aftershocks were also recorded following the initial tremor, raising concerns about further disruption in the region.
Authorities are continuing emergency response operations as they work to determine the full impact of the disaster.
Reporting by Borderless for The Borderless Journal. Filed under Uncategorized · 23 Oct 2026, 12:30.
