A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar today at 12:50 PM local time, with the epicenter near Mandalay, the nation’s second-largest city. The shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers intensified the tremors, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
In Myanmar, the death toll has risen to at least 163, with more than 300 injured. Significant casualties have been reported in regions including Bago, Mandalay, Shan, Naypyidaw, and Sagaing. In Mandalay, numerous buildings collapsed, including parts of the historic royal palace and the Mahamuni Pagoda. A mosque collapse in the city resulted in 10 fatalities, and several monks were injured when a monastery gave way. Infrastructure damage is extensive, with reports of a dam failure causing flooding and sections of the Mandalay-Yangon highway being severely damaged.
The earthquake’s impact extended to neighboring Thailand, where tremors were felt as far as Bangkok. In the capital, a 30-story building under construction collapsed near the Chatuchak market, trapping dozens. At least two deaths and several injuries have been confirmed in Bangkok, with rescue operations ongoing despite unstable conditions. The Thai government has declared a state of emergency, and authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage.
In response to the disaster, Myanmar’s military junta has declared a state of emergency in six regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Bago, Magway, Shan State, and Naypyidaw. Hospitals in Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Sagaing are overwhelmed with injured patients, prompting urgent calls for blood donations. Emergency response teams from Ayeyarwady Region and Yangon have been dispatched to assist with search and rescue efforts. The junta has also made a rare appeal for international humanitarian aid to support relief operations.
The earthquake’s tremors were felt across Southeast Asia, including in China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, where injuries and damage have been reported. The international community has begun to mobilize support, with organizations preparing to send medical supplies and aid to the affected areas.
The road to recovery will be challenging, especially for Myanmar, which is already grappling with internal conflicts. However, the resilience and solidarity demonstrated by the affected communities, coupled with international support, provide hope for rebuilding and healing in the aftermath of this tragedy.
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