Dozens More Killed in 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake in Nepal

According to reports, a new 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Nepal has shaken 20 regions in the country and left at least 66 dead. Among the casualties, at least 17 people have died in India and one in Tibet, China. An American military helicopter has also gone missing while providing aid in the country. The Nepalese government reports that at least 42 people have died in Nepal, and over 1,100 have been injured, while local media has reported the death toll to be as high as 59. The Nepalese Interior Minister stated that the earthquake has shaken 20 locations. The Times of India reports that the recent earthquake has caused significant panic in Kathmandu, the capital, with people fleeing to the streets and open spaces. According to the same newspaper, members of parliament left the chamber and moved outdoors after the building shook. This earthquake occurs three weeks after a 7.8 magnitude quake that left over 8,000 dead, and aid efforts for its victims are still ongoing. Rescue teams are assisting victims of the earthquake on May 22, as access to some mountainous areas in Nepal is only possible by helicopter, and aid is being distributed in some regions through this means. An American military helicopter went missing during one of these missions on May 22. The Associated Press quoted U.S. defense officials stating that six Marines and two Nepalese soldiers were aboard the helicopter. Steve Warren, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense, mentioned that an Indian helicopter nearby heard radio communications from the American helicopter regarding a possible fuel issue. The American and Nepalese forces were moving to another area after distributing aid in one region when their helicopter went missing. However, no reports of a possible crash of this helicopter have been released yet. Nearly 300 U.S. military personnel are engaged in relief efforts in Nepal using several helicopters and cargo planes. In this context, the severe earthquake has reportedly shifted Kathmandu 'several meters to the south.' U.S. military aircraft have entered Nepal to assist in relief efforts in remote areas.