A huge magnitude 7.1 earthquake has hit the holy city of Shigatse, or Xigazê, in the autonomous region of Tibet in China.

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.

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck near the Tibetan city of Shigatse with the epicenter about 50 miles northeast of Mount Everest. NBC News’ Janis Mackey Frayer reports on the latest from Chinese authorities on the rescue operations.