Tibet Earthquake Kills 16, Injures 54 in Nagqu
A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck northern Tibet on Thursday, October 22, 2026, killing at least 16 people and injuring 54 others. The earthquake hit Baqen County in Nagqu City, causing hundreds of homes to collapse and triggering rockfalls. Chinese authorities have deployed more than 1,600 emergency personnel as rescue operations continue in the remote mountainous region.
Tibet Earthquake Kills 16, Hundreds of Homes Collapse
The earthquake struck at approximately 10:33 pm local time, with its epicentre located around 190 kilometres east-northeast of Nagqu.
The United States Geological Survey estimated the earthquake’s depth at 18 kilometres, while other seismic agencies reported different measurements.
Local authorities confirmed that at least 339 residential buildings and 20 livestock sheds collapsed. Eleven injured people were initially reported to be in serious condition.
China Deploys 1,600 Personnel for Earthquake Rescue
Emergency teams have been searching damaged settlements for survivors and assisting residents displaced by the earthquake.
Authorities activated an emergency response mechanism and dispatched rescue personnel, medical teams and temporary accommodation supplies.
The earthquake also disrupted telecommunications and electricity services in affected areas. Railway operations were suspended as a precaution, while rockfalls obstructed road access.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for comprehensive rescue operations and medical assistance for those affected.
Snowfall Threatens Tibet Earthquake Relief Operations
Weather forecasts indicate intermittent snowfall across the affected region over the next three days, potentially complicating rescue efforts and increasing risks for displaced residents.
Authorities are distributing tents, winter clothing and emergency supplies to communities facing freezing conditions.
Northern Tibet is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes because of its location within an active seismic region.
In January 2025, another powerful earthquake struck Tibet’s Tingri County, killing at least 126 people.
The latest disaster has renewed concerns about earthquake preparedness and emergency infrastructure in remote Himalayan communities.
