CHINA ORDERS ‘ALL-OUT’ RESCUE AFTER TIBET QUAKE KILLS 16

China has ordered an urgent search-and-rescue operation after a powerful earthquake struck Tibet, killing at least 16 people and leaving dozens injured, according to state media.

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit on Thursday night, October 22, collapsing more than 300 homes and forcing residents to flee into the open.

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for every effort to find missing people, treat the injured and minimise further loss of life.

He also directed authorities to send rescue equipment and relief supplies quickly, noting that the affected area’s high altitude and cold weather posed additional challenges.

Emergency workers searched damaged buildings overnight, using torches to look for survivors beneath collapsed roofs and rubble.

Residents described shaking homes and falling objects. Some spent the night in cars or roadside tents because they were afraid to return indoors.

Power and telecommunications services were disrupted in parts of the affected area, adding to the difficulties facing communities and rescue teams.

Authorities mobilised firefighters, armed police and other emergency personnel, while tents, generators and other supplies were sent to support displaced residents.

Search-and-rescue efforts remained underway as officials assessed the damage and worked to reach those needing help.