On Tuesday and Wednesday, the CC&TSPMs of Qingdao City and Hubei Province issued appeals for prayers and donations to support the earthquake-affected areas in Dingri County, Shigatse City, Tibet.
Both letters referenced Xinhua News Agency, stating that the China Earthquake Networks Center determined a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Dingri County, Shigatse City, Tibet, at 09:05 on January 7. The earthquake, with a focal depth of 10 kilometers, had its epicenter in Cuoguo Township, Dingri County. Within a 20-kilometer radius of the epicenter, there are three township-level administrative offices and 27 villages, home to approximately 6,900 residents.
As of 19:00 on the same day, the earthquake in Dingri County had resulted in 126 fatalities and 188 injuries. Among the injured, 28 seriously ill individuals were transferred to the Shigatse People's Hospital for treatment. Additionally, 3,609 houses were destroyed. The disaster, compounded by multiple aftershocks, has caused profound hardship for the local population. In response, the Tibet Autonomous Region Government promptly activated a level II emergency response to address the crisis. Currently, all earthquake relief efforts are being conducted in a swift and organized manner.
The CC&TSPMs of Qingdao City and Hubei Province called on all local churches and believers to pray for the victims, seeking wisdom and strength for the rescue teams. They also prayed for God's guidance in ensuring the smooth progress of earthquake relief efforts. "May the deceased find peace in heaven, and may their families be comforted and supported during this difficult time."
The earthquake-affected region is situated in a high-altitude, cold area, where the harsh winter conditions and the earthquake pose dual challenges for the local population. As Shigatse is a counterpart support city of Qingdao, Qingdao CC&TSPM has also issued a call for donations.
