Beijing -- The death toll rose to 80 on Saturday after earthquakes rocked southwest China, destroying roads and communication lines, and forcing tens of thousands of evacuations, state media reported.

More than 700 others were injured in the Friday quakes, according to Xinhua news agency. Officials fear the death toll may rise as they scramble to reach affected areas.

Big rocks blocked roads, and communication lines and other infrastructure were downed, hampering rescue efforts.

About 100,000 people have been evacuated and 100,000 others are in need of relocation, state media reported.