Myanmar Earthquake : 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake , Killing Over 150
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 magnitude struck Myanmar and Thailand on March 28, 2025, causing extensive destruction, killing at least 144 people in Myanmar and 10 in Bangkok. The earthquake’s epicenter was near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, and it led to widespread devastation, collapsing buildings, bridges, and even a monastery.
Myanmar Earthquake : Casualties and Widespread Destruction
In Myanmar, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing confirmed on national television that at least 144 people had died, while over 730 were injured. The full scale of the disaster remains unclear due to Myanmar’s ongoing civil war and strict information control.
Meanwhile, Bangkok city authorities reported at least 10 deaths, 16 injuries, and over 100 missing persons. The earthquake triggered the collapse of a high-rise building under construction, causing panic and blocking rescue efforts.
Epicenter and Aftershocks
The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the 7.7 magnitude earthquake at a shallow 10-kilometer depth, increasing its destructive impact. A 6.4 magnitude aftershock followed, causing further structural collapses.
Myanmar’s Worst-Hit Areas
- Mandalay: The worst-affected city witnessed multiple building collapses, including a major monastery.
- Naypyidaw: The capital suffered damage, with rescue teams working to retrieve victims from the rubble of government housing.
- Yangon: Residents reported panic and evacuations as tremors shook Myanmar’s largest city.
- Dam Burst: A burst dam in Myanmar worsened flooding in surrounding areas.
Myanmar’s government has appealed for urgent blood donations, while the United Nations (UN) has allocated $5 million for relief efforts.
Thailand: Bangkok High-Rise Collapse and Panic
In Bangkok, Thailand, the quake led to the collapse of a 33-story building near Chatuchak Market. The scene was chaotic as bystanders screamed while a dust cloud engulfed the area. Vehicles halted on highways, and rescue operations are ongoing.
The Thai government has deployed emergency response teams, while Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit expressed hope for more survivors.
International Impact: Earthquake Felt in China
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake was also felt in China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. Reports from Ruili City showed damaged buildings and injured individuals being transported to hospitals.
Humanitarian Crisis and Challenges
Myanmar was already struggling with conflict and displacement, with over 3 million people displaced due to the military coup of 2021. This earthquake has worsened the humanitarian crisis, making relief efforts even more difficult.
Conclusion
The Myanmar earthquake has left a devastating impact on the region, with hundreds dead, buildings destroyed, and thousands in need of urgent aid. With rescue teams racing against time, the true extent of the Bangkok disaster and Myanmar’s destruction will unfold in the coming weeks.