Frequent aftershocks hamper rescue efforts

Frequent aftershocks have continued to jolt Yushu in the past two days, hampering urgent rescue efforts.

The China Earthquake Network Center has reported at least nine aftershocks that could be felt in the region since Wednesday's quake. The strongest was a 6.9-magnitude tremor. Rescue headquarters are assessing the extent of the damage and revising the death-toll, which is expected to rise.

Rescue staff said relief materials were still in urgent need. The high altitude of the quake zone has also strained rescue teams and their equipment. Some sniffer dogs are unable to work at almost 3,700 meters above sea level.