After a powerful magnitude-6.8 earthquake struck Dingri County in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, concerns have emerged about possible strong aftershocks and geological disasters like avalanches or landslides. However, experts are assuring residents that the chances of significant aftershocks are low.
“The aftershock activity from this earthquake is relatively weak,” said Jiang Haikun, a researcher at the China Earthquake Networks Center. “There may still be aftershocks of around magnitude 5, but the likelihood of a larger earthquake is low.”
Mount Qomolangma, known globally as Mount Everest, remains unaffected. “As of the 8th, Mount Qomolangma has not been impacted by the earthquake, and no significant ice falls, avalanches, or geological changes have been observed,” stated Ma Weiqiang, director of the Mount Qomolangma Atmospheric and Environmental Comprehensive Observation and Research Station of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Authorities are monitoring for potential secondary disasters. “Whether secondary disasters like landslides or rockfalls could occur will depend on further investigation and judgment by the emergency response teams at the site, based on which corresponding preparations will be made,” noted Gao Mengtan, former deputy director and senior researcher at the Institute of Geophysics of the China Earthquake Administration.
Meanwhile, search and rescue operations are continuing in the affected areas, with temporary relocation tents established for residents in Gurong Village, Dingri County. Emergency teams are on standby to respond to any developments.
Reference(s):
Concerns after Dingri earthquake: Aftershocks and geological risks
cgtn.com
