What Caused Today's Deadly 126-Death Massive Tibet Earthquake?

Tibet Earthquake

At least 126 people were killed and nearly 180 injured in Tuesday's strong earthquake that slammed Tibet close to Mount Everest. At 6:35 am, the earthquake struck Tingri County, about 80 kilometers north of the peak, with a magnitude of 6.8 according to Chinese authorities and 7.1 according to the US Geological Survey. Parts of India, Bhutan, and Nepal were all affected by the tremors.

A rupture in the Lhasa block, which is under a lot of geological stress, caused the earthquake. The continuous collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which has been sculpting the Himalayas for the last 60 million years, makes this region a hotspot for seismic activity.

In recent decades, Tibet has seen a number of earthquakes, including one in 1950 with a magnitude of 8.6.

Tibet Earthquake

 

According to a research released last year, the Indian plate, which clashed with the Eurasian plate, is gradually separating beneath Tibet. Significant seismic activity occurs in the area as a result of the "slab tear" process, in which the Indian plate's upper crust separates from its heavier lower layer.

Although there is little chance of a surface breach, this tearing process might split Tibet in two. The rip extends far below the surface of the Earth and could have an impact on local seismic activity. To learn more about the possible effects of this tectonic behavior, scientists are examining gas emissions, deep-layer earthquakes, and earthquake waves.

With a history of large earthquakes, the Himalayas continue to be one of the most geologically active regions in the world. Seismic hazards are being increased by the continuous plate collision, according to scientists.

Though the nation reported no injuries, significant tremors were recorded on Tuesday as far as Kathmandu, Nepal, 400 kilometers from the epicentre.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for all-encompassing measures to guarantee appropriate relocation and reduce casualties. As aftershocks tremble the area, emergency response workers are attempting to handle the disaster's consequences. The tourist destinations on China's side of Mount Everest have been shut down.