Rescuers Race Against Time After Xizang’s 6.8 Quake

Freezing temperatures and crumbling rubble aren’t stopping rescue teams in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region after a powerful magnitude-6.8 earthquake struck Dingri County early Tuesday morning. The quake, which hit near Mount Everest’s base camp area, has triggered an urgent response from Chinese authorities and local volunteers.

What’s happening?
Over 2,500 emergency workers are digging through debris with thermal scanners and sniffer dogs, while drones survey the mountainous terrain. At least 32 minor injuries and one fatality have been reported, but officials warn these numbers could rise as remote villages are reached.

Challenges ahead:
Temperatures dipping to -10°C (14°F) and damaged roads are complicating efforts. 'Every minute counts,' said Tenzin Wangchuk, a local rescue coordinator. 'We’re using heated tents to stabilize survivors until helicopters can airlift them.'

Why it matters:
Xizang’s high-altitude villages and iconic landmarks like the Rongbuk Monastery make this operation uniquely challenging. The Chinese mainland has deployed advanced earthquake-response tech, including AI-powered landslide prediction systems.

Stay tuned:
Social media is buzzing with #PrayForXizang as netizens share real-time updates. Authorities urge travelers planning Everest treks to check safety advisories first.

This is a developing story. Follow @NewspaperAmigo for live updates.

Reference(s):

All-out rescue efforts underway following Xizang magnitude-6.8 quake

cgtn.com