House turned into debris, 126 deaths, and a horrifying scene

In the early days of the year 2025, nature demonstrated its destructive power. The massive earthquake that struck Tibet on January 7 caused widespread devastation, in which so far 126 people have been confirmed dead and 188 injured. This 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in the Shigatse region turned thousands of buildings into debris. The epicenter of the earthquake was in Tingri County, which is about 80 kilometers from Mount Everest. This devastating incident created an atmosphere of fear in Nepal, Bhutan and some parts of India including Tibet.

Horrific scene after earthquake in Tibet

After the earthquake, a scene emerged in Tibet that would shock anyone’s heart.

• Hundreds of homes destroyed: Thousands of homes, hotels, and other buildings collapsed like a deck of cards.
• People frightened: The intensity of the tremors was so high that it was felt in Nepal, Bhutan, and even parts of India.
• Rescue operation continues: Rescue teams are working day and night to rescue people buried under the debris.
• Relief material distribution: Relief material like tents, blankets, and stoves have been sent to the displaced.

Weather became the biggest challenge

The biggest obstacle in the rescue operation is the weather of the area.

• Minus Temperature: The temperature is below zero in Tingri County at this time.
• Rescue teams in difficulty: Relief and rescue operations are being delayed due to cold and altitude.

Epicenter of the earthquake: near Mount Everest

The epicenter of the January 7 earthquake was in Tsogo Township, at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,800 ft) above sea level.

• Different figures of China and America:
  • The China Earthquake Network Center (CENC) measured the earthquake’s magnitude at 6.8.
  • The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded it as 7.1.
• The earthquake was felt in Tibet as well as in Kathmandu and northern parts of India.

Most affected area: Gurum village

The biggest impact of the earthquake was in Gurum village, where a large number of deaths occurred.

• Casualties in the village: 22 out of 222 residents died.
• Family tragedy: Village Communist Party chief Tsering Phuntsog lost his 74-year-old mother and other relatives.
• No time to get out of the house: During the earthquake, many people were unable to get out of the house, especially the elderly and children.

Heavy damage in Shigatse area

• More than 3,600 houses collapsed: Thousands of buildings in the Shigatse area were reduced to debris.
• 30,000 people homeless: Displaced people are now living in government shelters.
• Bhutan’s help: Bhutan’s emergency management agency has deployed 1850 rescue workers, including firefighters and medical teams.

Rescue operation and government efforts

• Media footage: State media showed rescue workers pulling victims from the debris and taking them to makeshift medical camps.
• Help to Tibet: The Chinese government has sent relief materials and teams to provide assistance to the affected people.

Special attention in Tsogo township

• About 6,900 people live in this township.
• Relief and rescue operations are being given priority here.

Vigilance and warning for the future

Experts believe the earthquake could potentially be a warning of more aftershocks in the future.

• Authorities appeal: Local residents have been asked to remain alert and prepared for any emergency.
• Local administration activation: Surveillance has been increased in Shigatse and Tsogo areas.