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After Deadly Quake, Xizang Scans for New Dangers
26 Oct
Summary
- Emergency geological hazard screening is underway in Xizang post-earthquake.
- Experts used satellite imagery to analyze glaciers and lakes near the epicenter.
- 157 geohazard sites were identified, with preventive measures implemented.
A magnitude-7.0 earthquake struck Drachen county in Xizang on Thursday, resulting in 16 deaths and 76 injuries. In response, China's natural resources departments activated emergency protocols to screen for secondary geological hazards.
An expert team conducted field inspections, while another used satellite imagery to analyze 80 glacial lakes and 145 glaciers within 50 kilometers of the epicenter. Their analysis indicated no significant impact on glaciers or lakes, ruling out glacial-lake outburst floods.
Emergency surveying and mapping produced specialized imagery for affected areas, including 3D mapping and deformation analysis. The Xizang natural resources department mapped hazard sites within 100 kilometers using drones and satellite devices.
In total, 78 personnel, 21 vehicles, and 13 drones were deployed. They assessed geological safety, slope stability, and deformation at settlements and residential areas, identifying 157 geohazard sites. Preventive measures are in place for all high-risk locations, with no reported casualties from these secondary hazards.
