2023 Nyingchi avalanche
An avalanche struck a road in Nyingchi at around 7:50 PM China Standard Time on 17 January 2023. Twenty-eight people were killed and 53 others were rescued, five of whom were seriously injured.
Date | 17 January 2023 |
---|---|
Time | 7:50 PM China Standard Time |
Location | Nyingchi |
Cause | High winds, rising temperature |
Deaths | 28[1] |
Non-fatal injuries | 53 |
Local reports attributed the avalanche to high winds and warming temperatures, and identified most of the victims as travelers during the spring travel rush prior to the Chinese New Year. The affected road was between Pei, Tibet, and the exit of the Doxong La tunnel, in Medog County. Victims were trapped inside the tunnel and in their vehicles under snow and ice.[2]
At least 1,348 rescuers and 236 pieces of equipment were deployed, digging a 7.5 kilometres (4.7 mi) path through waist-deep snow in rough terrain.[3] Rescue operations concluded at 5:30 PM on 20 January 2023.[4]
References
- "Tibet avalanche kills 28 as search called off". BBC News. 21 January 2023.
- "Death toll in Tibet tunnel avalanche rises to 28". Al Jazeera News. 20 January 2023.
- "Death toll from Tibet avalanche rises to 28". Reuters. 21 January 2023.
- "Avalanche in Tibet kills 28, rescue work completed". Xinhua. 20 January 2023.