China: Magnitude-7.1 earthquake occurs in south-central Xizang Autonomous Region Jan. 7 /update 1

A magnitude-7.1 earthquake occurred in south-central Xizang Autonomous Region, China, around 09:05 CST Jan. 7. The epicenter was about 93 km (58 miles) northeast of Lobuche, Nepal. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and severe to strong shaking was probably felt near south-central Xizang Autonomous Region, China, while moderate to light shaking was probably felt throughout the rest of south-central Xizang Autonomous Region in China, eastern Nepal, far western Bhutan, and far northeastern India.

Initial reports indicate at least nine fatalities in Dingri County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China; the death toll is likely to rise as rescue and recovery operations continue. Several structures have collapsed, including houses in Tonglai Village in Dingri County. Power outages are ongoing across parts of the affected area. It could take several hours for authorities to conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Several aftershocks have occurred, including a magnitude-5.1 aftershock at 09:13 and a magnitude-5.0 at 09:24. Additional strong-to-moderate aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.