HONG KONG — A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck near one of Tibet ’s holiest cities Tuesday, killing at least 53 people, Chinese state media reported. The earthquake, which was recorded just after 9 a.m. (8 p.m. ET Monday), was centered at a depth of nearly 6 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

At least 32 people have been confirmed dead after a major earthquake struck China's mountainous Tibet region on Tuesday morning, Chinese state media reported.

The 7.1-magnitude quake was felt in neighboring Nepal. Chinese state media said there had been deaths in at least three townships.