In brief
On January 6, 2025, a powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake shook western China, specifically in the Tibet region, with tremors felt across the border in Nepal. Chinese state media reported casualties in at least three local townships following the quake.
The earthquake struck shortly after 9 a.m., recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers in Dingri County, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Xinhua, the state-operated news agency, confirmed that multiple aftershocks occurred in the region, impacting areas of both China and Nepal. The epicenter of the quake was located in Shigatse City, noted as Tibet's second-largest city. The region of the Himalayas has a history of experiencing significant seismic activity, with a notable earthquake in Nepal in 2015 resulting in nearly 9,000 fatalities. The current situation is still unfolding as authorities assess the damage and provide necessary aid to affected communities.Berry Wang contributed to the research for this article. David Pierson, a seasoned journalist, specializes in covering China’s foreign relations and engagement in global matters.
