A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck China on Tuesday morning at 6:50 a.m., shaking the Dinghe area, 35 kilometers from Shigatse. National Seismological Center confirmed the event. Tremors were felt as far as Kathmandu, prompting residents to leave their homes. The quake’s impact extended to several other districts.
Scenic Areas of Mount Qomolangma Closed to Tourists
In response to the earthquake, China has temporarily closed tourist access to the northern side of Mount Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest. This area, located in Tibet’s Dingri County, includes the base camp of the world’s highest peak. The northern base camp, renowned for its highway access and well-developed infrastructure, had only recently reopened to foreign climbers in April 2024 after pandemic restrictions were lifted.
Structural Impact in Dingri
State-run Xinhua News Agency reported that hotels and nearby structures in Dingri remain intact despite the earthquake. However, the Qomolangma Station for Atmospheric and Environmental Research, managed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is facing power outages. Thankfully, the station’s facilities remain in good condition.
Fatalities and Injuries Reported
By 3 p.m. Tuesday, official reports confirmed 95 deaths and 130 injuries due to the quake. The earthquake’s magnitude was updated to 6.8, with the epicenter located in Dingri County, Xigaze. Rescue operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
Tourist Statistics and Weather Conditions
The Chinese side of Mount Qomolangma hosted 13,764 foreign tourists in 2024, more than double the number in 2023. Most visitors came from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and France. Dingri’s current temperature ranges from minus 18 degrees Celsius to zero, posing additional challenges for rescue and recovery efforts.
