A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck northwestern Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread devastation and significant loss of life.
The tremor, which hit near the city of Sagaing at a shallow depth, was followed minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, compounding the destruction.
The seismic event also impacted neighboring Thailand, where a state of emergency was declared in Bangkok following the collapse of a high-rise under construction.
Myanmar Faces Catastrophic Losses
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) conducted a predictive analysis based on the earthquake’s strength and depth, estimating that thousands of fatalities and severe economic losses are likely.
The hardest-hit areas in Myanmar include the Sagaing and Meiktila regions, where many buildings are not built to withstand powerful tremors.
“Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist,” the USGS analysis stated.
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread.”
According to Myanmar’s state-run MRTV, the confirmed death toll stands at at least 144, with 732 others injured.
However, given the scale of the destruction, authorities fear these numbers could rise significantly as search and rescue operations continue.
Disaster Strikes Bangkok: Dozens Trapped in Collapsed Building
In Bangkok, the effects of the earthquake were acutely felt when a 30-story government office building under construction crumbled to the ground within seconds.
The catastrophic collapse trapped at least 43 workers under a heap of rubble and twisted metal.
Footage shared on social media captured the sheer magnitude of the disaster, with emergency responders scrambling to free those buried beneath the debris.
Thai authorities quickly declared a state of emergency in the capital, mobilizing rescue teams and heavy machinery to the site.
Medics and police have been working tirelessly to reach survivors, though concerns remain about the structural integrity of other buildings in the area.
International Response and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
With the scale of destruction becoming increasingly apparent, Myanmar has appealed for international assistance, while humanitarian organizations have begun mobilizing aid efforts.
The United Nations and regional relief agencies are coordinating emergency responses, focusing on providing medical aid, temporary shelters, and food supplies to affected communities.
The earthquake serves as a grim reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic events. Experts stress the urgent need for improved earthquake-resistant infrastructure to mitigate future disasters.
As rescue efforts continue, authorities in both Myanmar and Thailand remain on high alert, prioritizing relief operations and damage assessments in the wake of one of the region’s most devastating earthquakes in recent history.
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