Seismic Activity in Tibet Highlights Complex Geology of Indian Ocean Plate
A powerful earthquake underscores the intricate tectonic dynamics beneath the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
A potent 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Dingri County in Shigatse, situated within China's Xizang (Tibet) autonomous region on Tuesday, causing significant loss of life and injury.
The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reports that this seismic event was instigated by northward compression exerted by the Indian Ocean plate, combined with crustal movements in the region.
The quake's epicenter was pinpointed in the Lhasa block, a geologically dynamic area located in the southern stretches of the expansive Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
This region is known for its seismic activity due to the intricate tectonic processes occurring beneath it.
The CENC indicates that the earthquake was a result of an extensional rupture, which represented the release of accumulated tectonic stress within the Lhasa block.
Notably, the area has a historical precedent of significant seismic activity, having experienced 21 earthquakes with magnitudes above 6.0 since 1950. The largest of these, recorded at a magnitude of 6.9, underscores the potential volatility of this geological landscape.
The earthquake struck at 9:05 am local time, its epicenter located in Tsogo Township.
This area encompasses a population of approximately 6,900 people within a 20-kilometer radius.
As of the latest reports available, 126 individuals have lost their lives as a result of the tremor, while 188 have sustained injuries.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with local authorities actively engaged in relief efforts.
This tragic event highlights the persistent risk posed by the region's complex geology, which is influenced by the ongoing interaction between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Aftershocks are anticipated, as stated by the CENC, indicating potential further seismic activity in the vicinity of the original earthquake.
The situation underscores the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness for communities situated in this seismically active zone.
_houliqiang@chinadaily.com.cn_
The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reports that this seismic event was instigated by northward compression exerted by the Indian Ocean plate, combined with crustal movements in the region.
The quake's epicenter was pinpointed in the Lhasa block, a geologically dynamic area located in the southern stretches of the expansive Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
This region is known for its seismic activity due to the intricate tectonic processes occurring beneath it.
The CENC indicates that the earthquake was a result of an extensional rupture, which represented the release of accumulated tectonic stress within the Lhasa block.
Notably, the area has a historical precedent of significant seismic activity, having experienced 21 earthquakes with magnitudes above 6.0 since 1950. The largest of these, recorded at a magnitude of 6.9, underscores the potential volatility of this geological landscape.
The earthquake struck at 9:05 am local time, its epicenter located in Tsogo Township.
This area encompasses a population of approximately 6,900 people within a 20-kilometer radius.
As of the latest reports available, 126 individuals have lost their lives as a result of the tremor, while 188 have sustained injuries.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with local authorities actively engaged in relief efforts.
This tragic event highlights the persistent risk posed by the region's complex geology, which is influenced by the ongoing interaction between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Aftershocks are anticipated, as stated by the CENC, indicating potential further seismic activity in the vicinity of the original earthquake.
The situation underscores the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness for communities situated in this seismically active zone.
_houliqiang@chinadaily.com.cn_
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