A 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck a county in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Thursday night, prompting Chinese President Xi Jinping to swiftly order emergency search and rescue operations. The president emphasized the importance of locating missing individuals and providing immediate medical care to the injured, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Authorities have been instructed to minimize casualties and prioritize assistance to affected residents. Emergency response teams are actively working to assess the earthquake’s impact and deliver necessary support to the impacted communities.

President Xi’s directives highlight the Chinese government’s commitment to a rapid response, ensuring that all available resources are mobilized to address the disaster’s aftermath. As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on safeguarding lives and facilitating recovery for those affected by the earthquake.