Rescuers at the scene where an unfinished high-rise collapsed in Bangkok. AP
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 magnitude hit central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and claiming over 150 lives. The tremors were so strong that they were felt in parts of Thailand and southwest China. Myanmar’s military leader confirmed that at least 144 people have died and over 730 have been injured.
The earthquake struck near Sagaing, a city about 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of Mandalay. The region, home to around 1.5 million people, was severely impacted. The quake caused buildings to collapse, roads to crack, and infrastructure to fail. A second quake, measuring 6.4 magnitude, struck just 12 minutes later, adding to the devastation.
In Myanmar’s capital, Nay Pyi Taw, roads buckled, and the military government declared a state of emergency in six regions. Authorities fear the death toll will keep rising in the coming days as rescue efforts continue.
The damage is immense, especially in Mandalay. A rescuer described the situation as "enormous," with emergency workers struggling to reach victims. In many areas, they are using their hands to dig people out from under the rubble, as there is not enough heavy machinery available.
The earthquake also caused severe damage in Thailand. In Bangkok, a high-rise building under construction collapsed, leaving around 100 construction workers missing. At least seven people have been confirmed dead so far. Rescue teams worked overnight, using drones, sniffer dogs, and heavy equipment to search for survivors.
The quake created chaos in Bangkok. Several buildings, including a hospital, were evacuated. Patients were moved outside for safety. Amid the panic, a woman gave birth on a stretcher, surrounded by hospital staff.
Bui Thu, a journalist living in Bangkok, described the frightening experience. She was cooking at home when the quake hit. "I was very nervous and panicked," she said. "Buildings in Bangkok are not built for earthquakes, which is why I expect there will be significant damage."
Myanmar’s recent history of political turmoil is making the situation worse. The country, ruled by a military junta since 2021, is already facing a civil war. The Sagaing region, where the quake hit, is a key battleground. Many charities and opposition groups fear that aid could be politicized.
The military government has made a rare call for international help. However, the country’s complex situation could slow down rescue and relief efforts. Many areas under rebel control are difficult to reach, and the junta has previously blocked aid from reaching such areas.
The earthquake has added to the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where 3.5 million people have already been displaced by ongoing conflict. Relief organizations are concerned that the flow of aid will be restricted, making it harder to help those affected by the disaster.
